DHS man accused of unlawful discharge of firearm, fleeing police in Palm Springs

A 25-year-old Desert Hot Springs man was arrested early Friday morning after a short pursuit that began with officers investigating reports of shots fired.

Police were called about 12:43 am to South Palm Canyon Drive. According to the Palm Springs Police Department, officers learned that a silver or gold color Lexus may be involved and a Lexus sedan matching the description was located driving around in the area of the call.

Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop but the driver failed to yield and attempted to evade at a high rate of speed. The suspect was able to elude officers and abandoned the vehicle, which was found on Claymore Drive. The suspect and a juvenile passenger were found a short time later hiding in a backyard nearby on Airlane Road.

Ammunition was found inside the vehicle, according to police, and a holster near the suspect, but no firearms were found. Investigators performed additional searches during daylight hours in an attempt locate a firearm in the event it was thrown out at some point during the pursuit. Based on the information obtained during this investigation, it is believed the suspect was in possession of a firearm during this incident.

Juan Macias was arrested for pursuit and unlawful discharge of a firearm charges.

The Palm Springs Police Department reminds about the importance of reporting any firearm found in public as it could be related to a criminal investigation. In an effort to preserve possible evidence, they ask that you do not touch any found firearms and immediately notify your local law enforcement agency. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call The Palm Springs Police Department at 760-327-1441. Anonymous information can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 760-341-7867.

Incident Type: Unlawful Discharge of Firearm and Pursuit Today's Date: 05-18-2020 Current Time: 10:50:08 …

Posted by Palm Springs Police Department, CA on Monday, May 18, 2020