Man Accused of Attempted Murder Captured After Fleeing Calexico Traffic Stop

CALEXICO, Calif. – A 29-year-old convicted felon was taken into custody on the night of Monday, March 31, following a multi-agency operation in Calexico, authorities said.

Gustavo Alejandro Ortiz faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder, after allegedly pistol-whipping and strangling his girlfriend in a violent domestic assault.

According to police, when officers initially attempted to pull Ortiz over, he attempted to discard a firearm by throwing it onto the roof of a nearby building. However, the weapon failed to land on the roof and instead fell to the ground. Immediately afterward, Ortiz fled the scene in his vehicle, leading officers on a high-speed pursuit. He successfully evaded capture at that time.

Following an extensive investigation, Calexico Police Department detectives coordinated with allied law enforcement agencies to locate and apprehend Ortiz. On Monday night, March 31, officers spotted him in the area of Main Street and North Eastern Avenue in Calexico.

A short foot pursuit followed, after which Ortiz was subdued and taken into custody without further incident.

The Calexico Police Officers Association thanked the Brawley Police Department, El Centro Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol, and other assisting agencies for their support in the operation.

Ortiz remains in custody as the investigation continues and legal proceedings move forward.