DCSO: Fugitive fled Lower Bridge traffic stop, manhunt
(Update: Sheriff’s office IDs suspected driver, details chase, manhunt)
Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies have identified a fugitive from Terrebonne who they said refused to pull over for a traffic stop Monday morning, leading to a three-mile chase that ended in an extensive but fruitless manhunt after his car high-centered on a rock and he ran away on BLM land.
A sheriff’s deputy patrolling on Northwest 43 rd Street near Lower Bridge Way west of Terrebonne spotted a black Honda Accord that he attempted to stop for a traffic violation – speeding – as well unapproved material (such as plastic or cardboard) where a window should be, Sgt. William Bailey said.
The driver, later identified as David Stryffeler, 34, of Terrebonne, failed to yield to the lights and siren and drove away, turning west onto Lower Bridge Road, prompting a pursuit. Bailey noted there was little to no traffic on the road and pursuit speeds were 50 to 65 mph.
The deputy pursued the driver for about three miles before the Accord’s driver turned onto BLM land off the north side of Lower Bridge Way, Bailey said. It went about a quarter-mile before becoming high-centered on a rock, and the driver and only occupant, wearing a camouflage jacket, ran from the scene.
Oregon State Police troopers, Jefferson County sheriff’s deputies, Redmond police, a BLM ranger and K-9 and a Bend Police Department K-9 team responded to assist with a perimeter of the area and track the driver. But an extensive search failed to find the driver, Bailey said.
An investigation throughout the day determined Stryffeler is the suspected driver. Bailey said he has a felony warrant out of Deschutes County for parole violation.
A search of court records finds Stryffeler has a lengthy criminal record, dating back to 2002, including DUII, reckless driving and drug charges.
Anyone with information on Stryffeler’s whereabouts is urged to contact Deschutes County dispatchers at 541-693-6911, referencing case No. 17-359030.
