Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department – Information Bureau (323) 890-5500
911 for emergencies. Non-emergencies: (323) 229-4900
A major standoff between law enforcement and a man barricaded inside a stolen big rig has led to the closure of the southbound I-5 Freeway in Southern California, causing major traffic gridlock. The incident began at around 9:30 AM on Monday morning, when police received reports of a stolen semi-trailer truck traveling on the freeway. Officers attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver refused to stop and led them on a pursuit that ended on the southbound I-5 Freeway near the 91 Freeway.
The suspect, identified by authorities as 32-year-old Brandon Anderson, was reportedly armed and had barricaded himself inside the truck’s cab. According to witnesses, the suspect fired several shots during the pursuit, and at least one officer’s car was struck. There were no reports of any injuries.
Law enforcement officials have established a wide perimeter around the scene and are attempting to negotiate with Anderson. The southbound I-5 Freeway has been closed in both directions between the 91 Freeway and the 710 Freeway, and traffic is being diverted to local roads. The closure is causing major delays and gridlock throughout the area.
The LA County Sheriff’s Department is urging motorists to avoid the area of the closure and to seek alternate routes. The closure is expected to last for several hours, and motorists should use the following alternate routes:
The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available.