Overview

A kidnapping suspect was apprehended by police in Cerritos on Tuesday evening, following a dramatic pursuit and standoff that began the previous day in Orange County. The suspect, identified as Thomas Ueno, was involved in a chase that concluded near a park in Newport Beach.

Key details

  • The arrest occurred around 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
  • Thomas Ueno, 35, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
  • The chase began shortly after 4:30 p.m. on Monday near Beach Boulevard and Commonwealth Avenue in Buena Park.
  • Ueno fled from a dark-colored Hummer SUV, leading police on a pursuit.
  • During the chase, Ueno ran up a hillside near Castaways Park and evaded capture initially.
  • He was pursued by officers and a police dog but managed to escape into a gated community.
  • At one point, police spotted Ueno on a trail during the search.
  • Inside the Hummer were two young children and a woman, later identified as Ueno's girlfriend.
  • The children and the woman were seen walking towards police and were reported unharmed.
  • During the standoff, Ueno was seen occasionally exiting the Hummer, holding one of the children.
  • Police negotiators attempted to persuade Ueno to surrender and release the hostages.
  • The situation was partially captured by television news cameras.

Context

The incident began as a report of a restraining order violation that escalated into a potential kidnapping situation involving Ueno's girlfriend and their children.

What happens next

Authorities are expected to release additional details regarding the arrest and the circumstances surrounding the incident on Wednesday morning.

What we don't know yet

Details about the identities of the children and Ueno's girlfriend have not been confirmed. The specific charges against Ueno are also not yet disclosed.