Daring Chase Across Highways Ends in Arrest: Austin Police Apprehend Aggravated Assault Suspect

Two Austin Police Officers, Mark Yaletchko and David Consier, responded to an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon report at a bank located on the westbound service road of Ben White Boulevard on October 2, 2023. The incident unfolded when a victim at the bank pointed out a suspect who had assaulted him and brandished a knife. Upon arrival, the officers attempted to approach the suspect, but he fled the scene, running across the service road and leaping over a concrete barrier, falling approximately 10-15 feet below.

Interim Chief of Police, Robin Henderson, commended the officers for their restraint, stating, “the officers showed great restraint by not following the suspect onto the high-speed roadway.” Officer Consier returned to his vehicle to relocate to the other side of the highway, while Officer Yaletchko maintained visual contact and relayed the suspect’s description and direction of travel.

Displaying exceptional agility, the suspect managed to cross all eight highway and service road lanes at what witnesses described as “Olympic-level speeds.” However, his escape was short-lived. On the other side of the highway, Officers Consier and Anthony Acosta were strategically positioned and swiftly apprehended the suspect, bringing the dramatic pursuit to an end.

The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The Austin Police Department praised the officers’ quick thinking, teamwork, and dedication to public safety, ensuring the successful resolution of the incident.