Executive Summary
- Incident Overview: A traffic stop in Magalia escalated into a pursuit and shootout on Saturday night.
- Suspect Identification: Kristian Michael Stevens, 32, was identified as the driver and had prior outstanding warrants.
- Alleged Confrontation: Stevens allegedly fired at a deputy during the chase and exchanged fire after crashing before fleeing on foot.
- Arrest: Authorities located Stevens at his Chico apartment following a manhunt and inter-agency investigation.
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. — Authorities in Northern California arrested a 32-year-old man on Saturday night following a vehicular pursuit and manhunt that reportedly involved an exchange of gunfire with a law enforcement officer. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) confirmed that the suspect has been charged with the attempted murder of a peace officer.
The incident began at approximately 9:53 p.m. when a deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop near the intersection of Wood Drive and Elwood Drive in Magalia. According to the BCSO, the driver of the vehicle refused to yield, prompting a pursuit. Investigators later identified the driver as Kristian Michael Stevens, who authorities noted had several outstanding warrants at the time of the incident.
During the course of the pursuit, the Sheriff’s Office alleges that Stevens discharged a firearm at the pursuing deputy’s vehicle. The chase concluded when the suspect’s vehicle crashed into a ditch on Centerville Road. Following the crash, BCSO officials stated that Stevens and the deputy exchanged gunfire before the suspect fled the scene on foot. Law enforcement reports indicate that no injuries were sustained during the exchange.
A subsequent investigation, conducted in collaboration with the Chico Police Department, led authorities to evidence suggesting Stevens had retreated to his apartment in Chico. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence, where Stevens was located and taken into custody. He was booked into the Butte County Jail on charges including attempted murder of a peace officer, in addition to his prior outstanding warrants.
Investigative Protocol and Legal Proceedings
The investigation into the use of force and the events leading to the arrest is currently being managed by the Butte County Officer Involved Shooting Incident Protocol Team. This multi-agency approach is standard procedure intended to ensure an objective review of incidents where law enforcement officers discharge their weapons. As the case proceeds to the Butte County District Attorney’s Office, the focus will likely shift to the forensic analysis of the ballistics and the trajectory of the pursuit to substantiate the attempted murder charge. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the case to contact the District Attorney’s Office.
It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
