LIVINGSTON, Texas - A high-speed pursuit involving a stolen vehicle ended with an arrest Monday after a suspect led multiple agencies on a dangerous chase through Livingston.
On March 16, 2026, around 11 a.m., Livingston Police were alerted by the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office about a stolen vehicle from Calhoun County believed to be traveling north on State Highway 146.
Officers quickly located the vehicle just south of the city limits and attempted a traffic stop near the Red Barn area. The driver refused to stop and fled, prompting officers to initiate a pursuit.
Police attempted to stop the vehicle using multiple PIT maneuvers, but the suspect continued to evade officers, driving into the city despite efforts to disable the vehicle.
During the chase, a deputy with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office successfully deployed spike strips near Garner Street, damaging the suspect’s tires. Even with disabled tires, the suspect continued fleeing.
As the vehicle approached a red light at North Houston Avenue and East Church Street, officers conducted another PIT maneuver to prevent the suspect from entering the intersection and risking a collision.
The suspect then drove onto East Church Street and collided with a Livingston Police K9 unit. Officers attempted to box in the vehicle, but the suspect continued fleeing onto Old Woodville Road before leaving the roadway.
The driver then fled on foot into a wooded area, leading officers and deputies on a foot pursuit across a creek. After ignoring commands to stop, a Taser was deployed, and the suspect was taken into custody.
The suspect was identified as 22-year-old William Rivera of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. He is facing charges of unauthorized use of a vehicle and evading arrest or detention with a vehicle.
Authorities said no injuries were reported during the incident.
Officials praised the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, noting the quick decisions made by officers helped bring the situation to a safe conclusion.
