NE Bend driver runs from traffic stop, eludes police

(Update: Adding that drone was used)

A driver stopped, got out and ran from an attempted traffic stop in northeast Bend late Thursday morning, prompting a search of the area and deployment of two K-9 teams and a drone, but the motorist got away, police said.

An officer attempted to pull over a vehicle for a traffic violation around 11:40 a.m. at the intersection of Northeast Sixth Street and Franklin Avenue, near Juniper Park, Lt. Clint Burleigh said.

Instead, the driver parked the car, jumped out and ran, escaping from pursuing police, Burleigh said.

An ensuing search of the area lasted just over an hour, Burleigh said, and included Bend police Officer Kevin Uballez and his K-9 partner, Kim, as well as Deschutes County sheriff’s Deputy Jeremiah Johnson and his K-9 partner, Ezel. A drone also was used for a time to get an aerial view for searchers, he said.

There were no school lockdowns or lockouts, and activities at the nearby Juniper Swim and Fitness Center were unaffected, the lieutenant said.

Based on information at hand — some not being released publicly — police said there was “no threat to the public at this time.”

We’ll have more information as it becomes available.