Police in Oklahoma City arrested two suspects early Tuesday morning after a drive-by shooting led to a police chase across part of the city. Officers say the situation started with reports of gunfire near Interstate 240 and South May Avenue around 1 a.m. What began as a shots-fired call quickly turned into a pursuit involving a suspect vehicle and ended with two people in custody.
What Happened Early Tuesday Morning
According to Oklahoma City police, officers received a call about a possible drive-by shooting near the area of I-240 and South May. Responding officers began searching the area for a vehicle connected to the shooting.
While patrolling nearby streets, officers spotted a black truck that matched the description provided in the initial report. Police began following the vehicle to investigate further.
The truck continued driving for nearly two miles as officers stayed behind it. During the pursuit, police attempted to stop the vehicle using a tactical maneuver designed to safely disable or stop a fleeing vehicle.
Suspect Vehicle Hits Police Car
During the attempt to stop the truck, officers say the situation escalated when the driver intentionally rammed a police vehicle.
Authorities identified the driver as Joel Almengor. After the crash, police said he got out of the truck and tried to run away from the scene.
Officers chased him on foot and were able to catch him shortly afterward. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Another person connected to the case, identified as Arturo Cruz, was also arrested.
Connection to the Drive-By Shooting
While officers were handling the pursuit and arrests, investigators at the scene of the earlier shooting provided additional information.
Police determined that the same black truck involved in the chase had also been used in the reported drive-by shooting near I-240 and South May.
Because of this connection, both suspects are now facing serious charges related to:
- Using a vehicle to carry out a shooting
- Fleeing from police
- Leading officers on a pursuit
Investigators are continuing to review the details of the case to determine exactly what happened during the shooting and chase.
Medical Attention for One Suspect
During the arrest process, police said one of the suspects began experiencing breathing problems.
As a precaution, officers transported the individual to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation.
After being checked by medical staff and cleared, the suspect was later booked into jail along with the other person involved.
Situations like this are common procedure when someone in police custody shows signs of a medical issue. Officers are required to ensure suspects receive medical care when needed before they are taken to jail.
No Injuries Reported
Despite the dangerous situation involving gunfire, a police chase, and a vehicle hitting a patrol car, authorities say no one else was hurt.
Police confirmed that:
- No officers were injured
- No bystanders were harmed
- No victims were reported injured in the drive-by shooting
Officials say this was fortunate considering how quickly the situation escalated during the early morning hours.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the drive-by shooting is still ongoing. Police will likely review several pieces of evidence as they continue building the case, including:
- Witness statements
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
- Evidence from the truck
- Ballistics or firearm-related evidence
Investigators will use this information to determine the full timeline of events and confirm the role of each suspect.
