A chaotic series of events unfolded on December 18, 2024, culminating in a tragic accident that claimed the life of a female motorist in her 60s. At approximately 12:38 PM, a Fullerton Police Detective witnessed a male suspect committing theft near the intersection of N. Gilbert St. and W. Malvern Ave. in Fullerton.

The suspect, later identified as 43-year-old Anthony Hanzal from Anaheim, fled the scene in a white Nissan Rogue. When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the suspect sped away, sparking a pursuit that led onto the westbound 91 freeway. During this flight, the suspect was involved in a non-injury hit-and-run collision near Brookhurst Rd. and Orangethorpe Ave.

Despite the pursuit efforts from Fullerton PD, officers lost sight of Hanzal as he exited at Knott Ave. However, police from Buena Park briefly spotted the fleeing vehicle before losing it again. Eventually, La Palma Police Officers found the suspect vehicle near La Palma Ave. and Walker St., reigniting the chase.

The pursuit ended when Hanzal’s vehicle collided with an uninvolved blue BMW at La Palma Ave. and Moody St., resulting in significant injuries to the BMW’s driver. Tragically, the female driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has taken over the investigation into the fatal traffic collision, which may lead to further charges. Hanzal, meanwhile, was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained in the crash and is expected to face multiple charges at Fullerton City Jail, including petty theft, hit-and-run, and felony evading.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a life cut short in this violent chain of events.