A roundup of recent notable incidents involving the California Highway Patrol (CHP) range from the arrest of a suspected freeway shooter to a cargo theft case solved, locating over $200k in merchandise. Officers also helped rescue a lost child, announced a well-deserved retirement and celebrated with their communities on National Night Out.
Freeway shooter in custody
On May 15, CHP Officers from the San Jose Area office responded to an incident involving a freeway shooting on Interstate-280 at the Saratoga Avenue off-ramp. After gathering necessary information from the victim – and with the assistance of the Flock Safety camera system to locate a potential suspect vehicle – Manuel Cadenas, 41, from San Jose was identified as a suspect. The evidence collected culminated in the authorization of warrants for the search of Cardenas’ residence as well as his arrest. On July 25, the CHP Golden Gate Division Special Investigations Unit, supported by the San Jose Police Department, executed these search and arrest warrants. Cadenas was taken into custody and a firearm was recovered.
Stolen tractor-trailer
Officers with the Golden Gate Division Cargo Theft Interdiction Program (CTIP) along with the Solano County Auto Theft Task Force were made aware of a stolen shipping trailer parked in an undisclosed location within Solano County. After some surveillance and investigatory work, an enforcement stop was made when the trailer started moving, which resulted in the arrest of the driver and recovery of over $200,000 worth of stolen merchandise including soundbars and LG electronics.
Missing boy located
On the morning of Aug. 4, 2024, CHP Helicopter-42 (H-42) received a call to assist the Madera County Sheriff’s Department with the search for a missing five-year-old boy. The boy had been missing since 5 p.m. the prior day from the Mammoth Pool Reservoir Campground. The child had wandered off while his family was preparing dinner. A massive search and rescue operation was conducted, which included numerous agencies. At approximately 8 a.m. the next morning, after being alone for approximately 15 hours (and through the night), the child was located not far from the campground. H-42 landed, and the paramedic on board provided medical care for the child. The boy was evaluated by medical professionals and released from the hospital the same day.
CHP dispatcher retires
The California Highway Patrol extends its heartfelt congratulations to CHP Dispatcher Susana Carrillo (A9502) as she embarks on retirement after 33 diligent years of service at the Los Angeles Communications Center. Throughout her career, she has provided critical support to countless officers, offering composure and direction during a multitude of significant occurrences in the Los Angeles vicinity. For more information about a life-changing career with the CHP, visit the website and register for the CHP Dispatch Hiring Seminar and Open House on September 12.
National Night Out
Tuesday, August 6, 2024, was National Night Out, a yearly powerhouse of an event that strengthens neighbors’ and law enforcement relationships, creating a sense of community. Millions participate in block parties, festivals, parades and more, featuring safety demonstrations, youth events and visits from emergency personnel. The CHP loves being part of the communities it serves.
