Full Notification

MERIDIAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 25, 2023
 
CONTACT: Kelsey Winnett, Public Information Officer
 

MERIDIAN- On July 24, 2023 at approximately 7:30PM, officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a black Dodge Pickup near the intersection of E. Ustick Ave. and N Lilyturf Ave. The driver was driving erratically including crossing lanes and hitting curbs. Rather than stopping, the black GMC took off and officers initiated a pursuit.
 
The driver of the vehicle, thirty-nine (39) year old Miguel HERNANDEZ reached speeds of 85 miles per hour as he drove down Ten Mile and Hwy 16 into Middleton. An officer attempted to stop the vehicle utilizing spikes, but could not successfully deploy because HERNANDEZ directed his vehicle toward the officer who was able to safely get away. During the pursuit, HERNANEZ also side swiped one vehicle.
 
In Middleton, HERNANDEZ’s vehicle left the roadway and collided into a dirt pile on the south side of Highway 44, just west of Emmett Road. Officers quickly took HERNANDEZ into custody. He was transported to a local hospital. A search of the vehicle yielded multiple open containers of alcohol.
 
A small brush fire was started as a result of HERNANDEZ’s vehicle leaving the roadway. Middleton Fire was called to the scene and was able to quickly put out the fire. No injuries were reported as a result of the pursuit or fire.
 
HERNANDEZ was later arrested and transported to the Canyon County Jail for a parole violation and an Ada County Hold. HERNANDEZ will later be transported to the Ada County Jail on the following charges: One (1) Felony Count Assault or Battery Upon Certain Personnel, One (1) Felony Count Driving Under the Influence (second offense),  One (1) Felony Count Officer- Flee or Attempt to Elude a Police Officer, One (1) Misdemeanor Count Driving Without Privileges, One (1) Misdemeanor Count Accident- Leaving the Scene or Failing to Stop, and One (1) Misdemeanor Count Alcoholic Beverage- Consume or Possess Open.
 
The Meridian Police Department would like to thank Middleton Police, Star Police, Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, Canyon County Paramedics, and the Middleton Fire Department for their assistance with last night’s pursuit.
  The Meridian Police Department’s mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and protect life and property through education, prevention and enforcement.  The department has 143 police officers and 43 non-sworn staff dedicated to making Meridian a great place to live, work and raise a family.