Suspects Hijack Big Rig Tanker in SoCal Freeway Chase

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — In one of the most dramatic police pursuits captured on camera, suspects hijacked a big rig tanker truck on a Southern California freeway and led law enforcement on a dangerous nighttime chase before officers were able to bring the vehicle to a stop.

The incident, recorded on August 10, 2025, and featured on NBC's The Chase Is On, showed aerial footage of the massive tanker truck lumbering down the freeway with police units in pursuit. Officers are seen approaching the cab of the truck during the tense chase, attempting to stop the vehicle while it remained in motion — an extraordinarily dangerous maneuver given the size and weight of the big rig.

Hijacking a commercial truck poses far greater dangers than a typical vehicle pursuit. A fully loaded tanker truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and requires significant stopping distance — making it an exceptionally hazardous situation for officers, other motorists, and nearby residents.

The nature of the truck's cargo was not immediately disclosed, though tanker trucks typically carry flammable liquids, chemicals, or other hazardous materials — raising the stakes of the incident considerably.

Officers ultimately managed to stop the vehicle and take the suspects into custody. No injuries to law enforcement or bystanders were reported.

The footage was featured as part of NBC's The Chase Is On, highlighting some of the most dramatic and dangerous police pursuits across Southern California.