LAPD: Puppy thrown out of moving car during hours long police chase

A puppy was thrown out of a moving car during an hours-long police chase in Los Angeles on Friday. The puppy “miraculously” survived and is doing well, authorities said. 

The pursuit of a man wanted for attempted murder began at around noon on Friday in South Los Angeles and continued for more than two hours through the neighborhoods of Inglewood and Westchester, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said.

During the chase, one of the suspects threw an 8-week-old puppy in a Michael Kors bag from the Chevy Avalanche onto the street. 

"Miraculously, the dog emerged unharmed and was rescued by responding LAPD officers," the LAPD wrote in a statement about the incident.

The chase continued until the suspect’s car hit another vehicle, prompting the driver to leave the car behind and jump into the back of a second getaway car in Carson, which appeared to be waiting for him.  

The high-speed pursuit ended when the driver and two passengers jumped out of the car and were surrounded by police. 

Three people were arrested in the incident: Gustavo Alvarez, 27, was charged with attempted murder and carjacking on March 26. Lynette Moreno, 27, was arrested for allegedly setting up the second getaway vehicle. Her bail was set at $67,000. Michelle Zamudio, 25, was arrested for driving the second getaway vehicle. His bail was posted at $75,000.

The puppy, a beige mixed breed, was taken to the Los Angeles Animal Services until an investigation into the “abandonment” of the animal is complete. The puppy’s rightful owner is also being investigated. 

"All is well as you can see — this little puppy’s doing just fine," animal care technician supervisor Matthew Spease told FOX 11 Los Angeles.

LAPD pursuit update. pic.twitter.com/rORjQpB5Qc

— LAPD HQ (@LAPDHQ) April 8, 2023