Police Chase From LAX Ends in Watts After Suspects Flee on Foot

A police pursuit that traveled through portions of South Los Angeles ended in the Watts area Wednesday night when four suspects abandoned their vehicle and fled on foot, according to California Highway Patrol officials.

The chase, which began near LAX with the South Gate Police Department, passed through neighborhoods not far from Inglewood and Compton before concluding when all four occupants of a white SUV jumped out of the vehicle at the intersection of E. 115th Street and Gorman Avenue in Watts.

Authorities reported that the suspects were initially wanted for allegedly brandishing a firearm, though specific details about the initial incident were not provided. The pursuit highlights ongoing public safety concerns in the greater South Los Angeles area that affect surrounding communities.

Aerial footage from news helicopters showed sparks flying from underneath the vehicle during the chase, which CHP officers attributed to blown tires after the SUV ran over a police spike strip deployed to end the pursuit. Officers also attempted multiple PIT maneuvers (Precision Immobilization Technique) to stop the driver, evidenced by damage to the vehicle’s rear bumper.

The pursuit route passed through areas frequented by Inglewood and Compton residents, raising community safety concerns about high-speed chases in residential neighborhoods. While this incident ended in Watts, similar pursuits have previously occurred within Inglewood and Compton city limits.

Law enforcement has not yet released information about whether the suspects have been apprehended or if any weapons were recovered. The Inglewood Times will update this story as more information becomes available.

Residents who witness suspicious activity or have information related to this incident are encouraged to contact local law enforcement through non-emergency channels or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

This story draws on information from KCAL News reporting by Dean Fioresi.