10/16/2024
Milton-Freewater Police Capture Jaime Torres Flores After Series of Elusions and Reckless Driving Incidents
WALLA WALLA, WA – October 12, 2024 — On the night of October 11th, Milton-Freewater police officers successfully apprehended Jaime Torres Flores Jr., a 29-year-old male, following a dramatic chase and foot pursuit. The incident occurred around 10:20 PM, when officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a 2020 GMC pickup. The driver, later identified as Torres, refused to comply and sped away, leading police on a chase through the area.
Torres eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Officers conducted a search and were able to locate Torres hiding under a nearby truck. He was taken into custody without further incident. In addition to an outstanding parole warrant, Torres now faces multiple charges including eluding police, hit and run, and reckless driving.
This arrest follows a string of encounters between Torres and law enforcement. On September 12th, at approximately 1:15 PM, Milton-Freewater officers attempted to stop Torres after observing him driving. Torres fled the scene, crashing into a parked car before escaping on foot. Despite an extensive search, officers were unable to apprehend him at that time.
Then, on October 4th, officers again encountered Torres around 10:12 PM. He fled on foot, and although police gave chase, they were unable to catch him. During the search, officers discovered a firearm that had been reported stolen from La Grande, Oregon. The investigation into this incident is ongoing, with further follow-up being conducted by Milton-Freewater detectives.
Milton-Freewater Police Chief Joe Shurtz praised his officers for their persistence in tracking down Torres. "Our officers have been working diligently to bring Mr. Torres into custody, and last night's arrest was the result of their commitment to protecting our community," Chief Shurtz said in a statement.
Torres remains in custody pending further legal action