On January 24, 2026, at approximately 7:50 PM, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies observed a Scion tC sedan believed to be involved in several recent vehicular eluding incidents with local law enforcement.
Deputies initiated a traffic stop as the vehicle pulled into a nearby parking lot; however, the driver fled, and deputies did not pursue.
At approximately 9:30 PM, deputies again located the vehicle traveling northbound on Powers Boulevard near Galley Road. The driver was driving the vehicle recklessly and ran a red light at the intersection of Powers Boulevard and Palmer Park Boulevard. Colorado State Patrol troopers were requested to assist.
At approximately 11:05 PM, law enforcement observed the vehicle traveling southbound on Powers Boulevard near North Carefree Circle. Deputies positioned themselves along Powers Boulevard to maintain visual tracking of the vehicle and relay its location as troopers responded to assist.
As the vehicle continued southbound near Aeroplaza Drive, the driver rapidly accelerated. Due to fresh snowfall and hazardous road conditions, the driver lost control of the vehicle, crashed into the median, became disabled, then slid to the right shoulder and came to rest.
Multiple El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Colorado State Patrol troopers responded and blocked the vehicle, ensuring the driver could not elude law enforcement again. The driver was taken into custody without further incident, and the passenger was detained.
“This incident reflects the importance of strong collaboration between law-enforcement agencies and the discipline to exercise patience in the interest of public safety,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “By working closely with our partners at the Colorado State Patrol and maintaining a coordinated, measured response, deputies were able to bring this situation to a safe conclusion without injuries. These outcomes are the result of teamwork, communication, and a shared commitment to protecting our community.”
The driver was identified as 19-year-old David Christman. Christman was transported for medical clearance prior to being taken to the El Paso County Jail, where he was booked on the following charges:
- Felony Eluding (3 counts)
- Reckless Driving
- Reckless Endangerment
- Multiple additional traffic violations
Christman was released on January 26, 2026, on a $4,000 bond.