A teenager skipped a Guardia Civil checkpoint in Palmanova and embarked on a 19-kilometre escape that mobilised 20 police cars. He was arrested in the Palma neighbourhood of La Soledad along with other occupants of the vehicle.
On the night of last Monday, a movie-like chase unfolded in Mallorca. A minor, at the wheel of a car, evaded a Guardia Civil checkpoint set up in the town of Palmanova and triggered a flight that kept security forces on edge for 19 kilometres.
The young man, realising the police presence, floored the accelerator and began driving at high speed, navigating roundabouts in the wrong direction and endangering other drivers. He headed towards the Andratx motorway towards the Balearic capital.
Up to 20 patrol cars, from both the National Police and the Guardia Civil, gathered behind him, initiating a coordinated follow-up operation. The chase continued along Joan Miró Avenue, on Palma's seafront promenade, and ended in the La Soledad neighbourhood, where officers managed to intercept the vehicle.
Arrest of the minor and other occupants
At the time of the arrest, the minor was subdued by the officers. Additionally, the other occupants travelling in the car were also detained after attempting to physically assault the police, according to sources from the investigation.
It is currently unknown whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, although the events constitute a clear case of reckless driving. The Guardia Civil has opened proceedings and the minor has been placed at the disposal of the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office.
Local angle: how it affects Palma residents
The chase, which took place on heavily trafficked roads such as the Andratx motorway and Joan Miró Avenue, generated moments of tension among drivers at that time. Fortunately, no accidents or personal injuries were reported, although the risk was high.
Residents of the La Soledad neighbourhood witnessed the end of the chase, with several police cars blocking the path of the fleeing vehicle. The swift action of the officers prevented the situation from escalating further.
This incident recalls other chases that have occurred on the island in recent years, such as that of a driver who stole a car in Palma and crashed into a façade after a similar flight. On that occasion, the individual was also arrested without causing injuries.
The National Police and the Guardia Civil maintain periodic checkpoints at strategic points across Mallorca to prevent property crimes, such as the one that prompted the operation in Palmanova. The collaboration between both forces was key to the outcome.
Authorities remind that reckless driving is punishable by up to six months in prison, and in the case of minors, measures may include detention in reform centres. The young man has already been placed at the judicial disposal.
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