EL PASO, Texas — A 35-year-old man was arrested early Thursday morning after allegedly attempting to evade deputies during a traffic stop in the Westway area, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect, identified as Oscar Gandarilla, faces multiple charges including driving while intoxicated with an open container, evading arrest with a vehicle, resisting arrest, and possession of a controlled substance. Authorities also confirmed Gandarilla had an active warrant at the time of his arrest.
The incident occurred around 6 a.m. on January 1, when deputies observed a black SUV run a traffic signal at the intersection of North Desert Boulevard and Westway Boulevard. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle continued driving before coming to a stop near a residence in the 900 block of Antelope Road.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Gandarilla exited the vehicle and attempted to walk away as a deputy approached. Police footage reportedly shows the suspect appearing disoriented. When deputies attempted to place him under arrest, Gandarilla allegedly resisted before being restrained and taken into custody.
A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of cocaine and an open container of alcohol, officials said. Gandarilla was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility with a bond set at $14,675.
Sheriff Oscar Ugarte stated that the incident underscores how routine traffic violations can escalate when drivers choose to flee or resist law enforcement. Gandarilla was among 35 individuals arrested during a New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day DWI enforcement operation conducted by the Sheriff’s Office.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations only. Oscar Gandarilla is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
