Video shows moments leading up to suspect being arrested after federal drug investigation chase

CBS 58

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) - New video shows the moments police moved into a Milwaukee backyard to arrest a suspect after a federal drug investigation turned into a chase on the city’s north side.

Police say the 31-year-old suspect may have ingested drugs while trying to run from officers and is now in critical condition.

According to investigators, the situation started Wednesday afternoon, March 11, during a federal drug operation near 91st and Silver Spring. Law enforcement officers identified a vehicle connected to the investigation and followed it about 15 blocks to the area near 106th and Silver Spring. 

Police say the driver then got out and ran, eventually ending up in a nearby backyard.

That yard belongs to Cristina Martinez.

“I turned around and I saw an officer at my driveway and they just wanted to check my backyard and I was like 'sure',” Martinez said.

Moments later, she said she realized someone was hiding there.

“I heard the yelling, put your hands in the air. That’s when I realized somebody was actually arrested in my backyard hiding. I saw the two other officers running towards the back,” she said.

During the arrest, police say the suspect lost consciousness. Investigators believe he may have ingested drugs while trying to get away, though it’s still unclear what substance was involved.

“I turned on my camera and I did see them giving him CPR,” she said.

Authorities say several officers and a K-9 were treated with Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. 

Three officers were also taken to the hospital after being exposed to the substance. Officials say they were evaluated and later released.

Martinez said the struggle to arrest the suspect also damaged a fence in her backyard.

“One of the officers, when they were trying to drag him out, was pushing the fence downward so it’s actually bent,” she said.

She says her family is still trying to figure out what happens next.

“So, my husband was like 'who’s going to repair that and take care of the damages,' so we don’t know,” she said.

Martinez said the heavy law enforcement presence around her home left her shaken.

“The house was full of cops, the FBI, everybody was here. This morning it was just so unreal this happened. I was still a little shaken to come outside,” she said.

Police say the suspect’s vehicle was towed and is being searched for drugs and other evidence. The investigation is ongoing.

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