Police Say They’ve Learned True ID of Car Chase Suspect

LINDALE � The Lindale Police Department says it has learned the true identity of a man wanted in connection with a high-speed chase in Smith County on October 17. According to officials, a man who was originally identified as Carlos Bonilla is actually 22-year-old Jesus Pedro Perez. Lindale Police have released pictures of Perez in hopes the public can help locate him.

Police say Perez was last seen near Garden Valley Road in Tyler and was the driver in a chase that began on Highway 69 in Lindale. Police say they were conducting a traffic stop when Perez pulled out a weapon. He then reportedly sped off with law officers following close by. During the high speed pursuit Perez reportedly shot at police. The chase continued onto Garden Valley Road, where officials say Perez wrecked his vehicle. He and the two passengers in the car got out and began running, according to authorities.

Police were able to stop and arrest Jesus Flores Jr., 27, and Thomas Ocampo, 25. Officials say an additional charge of failure to ID will be tacked onto Perez once he is in custody. Anyone with any information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Lindale Police Department.