Full Notification

Suspect Arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer
 
A man was arrested for multiple crimes including trying to run over a police officer with a car. 
 
San Mateo, CA – San Mateo Police Department arrested Joshua Carmelich on January 2, 2024, after an extensive investigation.  Carmelich was arrested for multiple felony crimes including assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer.    
 
On November 19, 2023, San Mateo Police Department was notified CHP was chasing a stolen GMC Sierra.  The truck entered San Mateo and our officers responded near the intersection of El Camino Real and 4th Avenue where the truck stopped.  As officers arrived at the location, they saw a male suspect attempting to enter different businesses in the area.  The suspect was confronted and immediately ran.  Officers chased the suspect as he ran back to the truck.  The suspect got into the truck and drove the vehicle directly at one of our officers.  The officer had to jump out of the way to avoid being struck by the truck.
 
The suspect recklessly drove the vehicle on the sidewalk and over curbs.  As more officers arrived locating the truck driving away, the officers began to pursue.  The chase ended when the suspect drove the truck through a fence and into San Mateo Creek, near the 700 block of 1st Avenue.  By the time officers were able to gather resources and safely approach the truck, the suspect was no longer in the truck.        
 
A search of the area and creek was done, but the suspect was not found.  Later, an officer was contacted by a community member and was told of a suspicious person walking around an apartment complex.  Officers surrounded the complex and conducted a thorough search, however, the suspect was not found. 
 
The Criminal Investigation Bureau investigated this crime, collecting evidence, writing search warrants, and reviewing surveillance footage.  After an extensive investigation, the suspect was determined to be Joshua Carmelich.  An arrest warrant was issued and Carmelich was placed under arrest in Modesto for assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, evading a police officer with disregard for public safety, and possessing a stolen vehicle.  Carmelich was booked into Stanislaus County Jail. 
 
We need the community’s support in reporting crimes and being a good witness.  If you witness a crime, contact police immediately.  Try to remain as calm as possible and do your best to answer questions on the phone.  Remember details such as the suspect’s appearance, clothing, any distinguishing features, and which direction they flee. Once the police arrive at the scene, cooperate fully, and provide the officers with all the information you have.  Your observations can greatly assist law enforcement in their investigation.   
 
Surveillance cameras are important and help police solve crimes throughout the community.  Most often, a suspect will flee the scene of a crime prior to police arrival.  Surveillance cameras are helpful for investigations and ensuring criminals are held accountable for their actions.  We encourage our residents to register their home surveillance cameras with us.  You can securely register your home surveillance cameras on our website at Security Camera Registration | San Mateo, CA - Official Website (cityofsanmateo.org).    
 
 
ARRESTED
Joshua Carmelich, 31-year-old Oakdale resident.
CHARGES:
245(c) PC- Assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, 496d(a) PC- Possess stolen vehicle, 2800.2(a) VC- Evade police officer with disregard for public safety.