Suspect still on the Loose after Vehicle Pursuit, Attempted Kidnapping

FORTUNA, Ca. (KIEM) – A suspect who led Fortuna police officers on a high-speed pursuit is still on the loose tonight.

It all started at around 2:30 Saturday afternoon in Fortuna where speeds reportedly reached 100 miles per hour on Southbound 101.

The male suspect, now being identified as Benjamin North, was intoxicated, and reportedly trying to kidnap his newborn baby.

North then turned onto state route 36 and as the pursuit continued, the suspect’s vehicle crashed into another vehicle and a gate near Rohnerville.

Two people in the vehicle sustained minor injuries.

Eureka resident, Michael Wickerd was one of the victims in that crash, who says he’s lucky to be alive.

Anyone with information is asked to call law enforcement.