High-speed chase ends in PIT maneuver, arrest

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – On August 25 at 8:27 p.m., a Grand Rapids officer observed a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Yelbin Alvarez Valerio operating in excess of 20 MPH above the posted speed limit. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, Yelbin began to flee in his vehicle and passed another vehicle on the right on a two lane road, almost causing this other vehicle to lose control. Officers would later learn that this other vehicle was being operated by Yelbin’s ex-girlfriend, and it is alleged that he had been “chasing” her prior to the officer observing the speeding violation.
During the vehicle pursuit Yelbin reached speeds near 100 MPH. Yelbin would drive through the City of Wisconsin Rapids to the Town of Rudolph. He would turn down numerous roads attempting to elude police. Wood County deputies successfully deployed tire deflation devices on two occasions, causing multiple tires to deflate on Yelbin’s vehicle. This reduced the speed at which Yelbin’s vehicle was capable of traveling, and a Wood County deputy performed a successful Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT maneuver) when Yelbin re-entered the City of Wisconsin Rapids.
Yelbin’s vehicle became disabled on Riverview Expressway at Chase Street and he fled on foot. Law enforcement was able to take him into custody after a short foot pursuit. He was then transported to Aspirus Riverview Hospital for suspected minor injuries before being booked into the Wood County Jail. No other person reported any injuries.
Charges requested to the Wood County District Attorney’s Office include: felony fleeing/eluding, possession of THC 2nd+, recklessly endangering safety, resisting/obstructing an officer and operating without a valid driver license - third offense. Yelbin was also cited for multiple traffic violations.
Agencies that assisted the Grand Rapids Police Department include the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, Wisconsin Rapids Police Department, Wisconsin Rapids Fire Department and Gary’s Towing.