HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) — Two suspects, including 18-year-old Larry Manuel Caliz of Springfield, were arrested early Tuesday morning in Holyoke following a high-speed chase involving a stolen Hyundai, according to Police Chief Brian Keenan.
At approximately 3:30 a.m., an officer patrolling near South and Main Street spotted three speeding vehicles, all reported as stolen. When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the vehicles fled the scene, prompting backup from additional officers.
One of the vehicles ran multiple stop signs, narrowly missed crashing into a police cruiser on Main Street, and eventually crashed into a sidewalk on Cabot Street near Bigelow Street. Officers arrested the driver, a 16-year-old male, and Caliz, who was the passenger.
Charges:
Juvenile Driver (16 years old):
Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle
Failure to Stop for Police
Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Marked Lanes Violation
Failure to Yield
Larry Manuel Caliz (18):
Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle
Due to the driver’s age, his identity has not been released.
Chief Keenan also warned the public about the recent spike in Hyundai and Kia thefts, particularly models from 2010 to 2021, which lack ignition immobilizers. Viral social media trends, especially on TikTok, have contributed to a surge in these thefts by showing how to bypass the ignition system.
Tips to Protect Your Vehicle:
Use a steering wheel lock
Lock all windows and doors
Install a battery disconnect switch
Park in well-lit or secure areas
Use a kill switch (professional installation recommended)
Consider an aftermarket car alarm
Holyoke Police continue to monitor and respond to the rise in vehicle thefts across Hampden County.
