Suspect Arrested for Carjacking, Kidnapping

Carjacking Originated in San Diego, Ends with Arrest in Palm Springs

PALM SPRINGS —A 33-year-old resident of San Diego was booked Sunday at Smith Correctional Facility for carjacking, kidnapping, felony evading, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

The carjacking and kidnapping incident started on March 9 at 9:12 a.m., when deputies from the Cabazon Sheriff’s Station responded to Haugen Lehman and Tamarack, Whitewater, regarding a stolen vehicle investigation. Deputies located the stolen Nissan Altima and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield. Deputies initiated a vehicle pursuit on the eastbound I-10 freeway toward Palm Springs.

Due to the suspect’s dangerous driving actions, deputies discontinued the pursuit. A short time later, the Palm Springs Police Department located the vehicle on Indian Canyon, north of Tramview. The two occupants fled from the vehicle but were ultimately taken into custody without incident.

Deputies identified the driver as Mata, and the passenger as Claudia Ruelas, a 24-year-old resident of Riverside. During the investigation, deputies determined Mata stole the vehicle at knifepoint in the Calimesa area. The victim managed to escape from the vehicle in the Banning area, where the incident was reported to law enforcement. Ruelas, who was not involved in the theft of the vehicle, was cited for an unrelated warrant and released. Mata

This is an ongoing investigation, and no further details are available. Anyone with information regarding this investigation can contact Deputy Lee at the Cabazon Sheriff Station at 951-922-7100.