A reckless driving suspect led Chico Police Officers on a pursuit Sunday morning. Chico Police received reports regarding a reckless driver in the area of Hartford Drive and Amanda Way after 9:30 am. One caller believed the driver was trying to run people over. Officers arrived and spotted a Hyundai S-U-V reportedly driving at a high rate of speed on Homboldt Road. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but police say the Hyundai collided into a utility box. The driver allegedly didn't stop and led police on a brief pursuit. Police say the Hyundai stopped and the suspect identified as 25-year-old Justin Melton of Oroville was arrested for D-U-I, hit and run, and evading officers.
According to a Chico Police press release, the collision with the utility box caused the traffic lights on Forest Avenue to not function for an extended period of time.