A late-night pursuit involving a stolen vehicle ended in a deadly crash Sunday, Nov. 16, leaving one suspect dead, another critically injured, and a Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) deputy hospitalized, authorities said.
According to the Porterville Police Department, the incident began at 11:56 p.m. when officers responded to the area of Plano Street and Mulberry Avenue to assist TCSO deputies in locating a reported stolen vehicle. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to yield, sparking a short pursuit through the west side of Porterville.
Suspect Rammed Deputy’s Patrol Vehicle
During the chase, a TCSO deputy positioned in the area was struck when the suspect intentionally rammed the deputy’s patrol vehicle. The deputy was not injured in the initial collision.
Shortly afterward, a Porterville Police officer spotted the suspect vehicle traveling at high speed near Westfield Avenue and Newcomb Street. When the officer activated emergency lights and sirens, the driver again refused to stop and continued eastbound toward Prospect Street.
Fatal Collision and Vehicle Fire
The suspect vehicle entered the intersection of Westfield Avenue and Prospect Street, where it collided with another TCSO patrol vehicle traveling southbound. The impact pushed the suspect car into the yard of a nearby residence, where it erupted into flames.
Two occupants were inside the suspect vehicle at the time of the crash. One of them, 17-year-old Nathaniel Michael Landa, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second occupant was transported to a local hospital with major injuries.
The TCSO deputy involved in the second collision also suffered moderate injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Authorities have not yet determined whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the incident.
Road Closures and Ongoing Investigation
Prospect Street and Westfield Avenue remain closed as investigators process the scene. Officials estimate the roads will remain shut down for several hours and urge motorists to use alternate routes.
The Porterville Police Department said the investigation is active and more information will be released when available.
