Man arrested in West Valley trying to escape in car with 3 flat tires

WEST VALLEY CITY — A man trying to flee from police in a car with three flat tires didn't get too far Thursday.

A detective from the Salt Lake Metro Gang unit was in an unmarked patrol car following a stolen vehicle just after 7 p.m. Thursday near 4100 South and Redwood Road.

The detective called for backup and officers from West Valley City got into position with tire spikes, said West Valley Police Lt. Bill Merritt. When the deputy who was following the stolen vehicle turned on his red and blue lights, the man fled, Merritt said.

The man drove through the tire spikes set up near 3200 West and 4100 South, flattening three of his tires. But he kept driving, Merritt said.

About five blocks later, near 4650 South and 3600 West, the man abandoned his car and ran. After running through several backyards, damaging at least one fence, police were able to catch up with him.

Jerry Vigil, 35, was arrested on outstanding warrants as well as investigation of new charges such as fleeing.

— Pat Reavy