In a peculiar turn of events, a low-speed chase involving a stolen forklift caused quite a stir in a California neighborhood. The incident, which lasted approximately 35 minutes, unfolded in the Arden Arcade area of Sacramento. Witnesses reported being awakened by the blaring sirens of numerous police vehicles, creating a scene that seemed more suited for a high-stakes pursuit rather than a slow-moving forklift.
James Nunnely, a resident of the neighborhood, described the situation as unprecedented. “It was surrounding. It was like all you could hear was sirens,” he said. The pursuit garnered attention from onlookers, who were initially perplexed by the commotion. Nunnely recalled his initial confusion, as he thought the authorities were concerned about a stationary forklift posing a potential hazard on the street. However, it soon became clear that the police were engaged in an actual chase with the forklift.
Video footage captured by witnesses showed the forklift making its way through the quiet residential streets, followed closely by a fleet of police cars. The pursuit finally came to an end when the forklift veered onto a bike trail and became disabled after knocking down a fence near Glenn Hall Park. The driver, identified as Wayne Mathern, was taken into custody without incident.
Authorities have revealed that the forklift involved in the chase is believed to be stolen, but attempts to locate the owner have been unsuccessful thus far. Mathern, who already had pending charges of misdemeanor battery on a peace officer and providing false information, now faces additional charges of evading arrest and vandalism.
The bizarre incident has left the community bewildered and questioning the motives behind the forklift theft and subsequent chase. Local residents, who were startled by the late-night pursuit, expressed their astonishment at the unusual turn of events.
While the incident may appear lighthearted on the surface, it serves as a reminder of the unexpected events that can unfold in everyday life. Despite the relatively low stakes of this particular incident, it highlights the importance of public safety and the diligence of law enforcement in maintaining order within communities.
As investigations continue into the stolen forklift and the circumstances surrounding the incident, the neighborhood can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the suspect is in custody and that normalcy will soon return to their tranquil streets.
