A police chase that began in Thousand Oaks ended hours later at the Mexico border Monday afternoon, after a woman stole a van from the sober living home where she was staying and led officers on a 150-mile pursuit through Southern California.
Authorities say the woman, who has not been publicly identified, took the 2004 gray Toyota Sienna from the home early Monday morning. The home’s owner, Nicolle Walters, runs a recovery residence for women rebuilding their lives after addiction. Walters told local outlets that one of the residents took her van and keys while she was asleep.
“She’s someone I was trying to help,” Walters said. “It’s super unfortunate, but I’m just glad she’s safe and nobody got hurt.”
Officers first spotted the van about 11 miles north of Thousand Oaks, around dawn. When they attempted a traffic stop, the woman sped away, swerving through traffic at speeds that reached 90 miles per hour. They chased her across Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties before she disappeared after crossing the US-Mexico border
Video from local news helicopters showed the van weaving between cars and dodging spike strips as police followed at a distance. The California Highway Patrol ultimately called off the pursuit near the border, citing safety concerns. Moments later, the woman crossed into Mexico.
Walters said she later spoke to the woman’s mother, who confirmed she had made it across safely. “The van is insured,” Walters said. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to get it back to the United States.”
The California Highway Patrol and federal authorities are investigating but have not said whether the woman will face charges if she returns.
The chase, which spanned four counties, underscored how desperation can spiral into danger — even among those trying to change their lives. Walters’ home provides housing and support for women recovering from alcohol abuse, a population that often faces long odds and fragile stability during early sobriety.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” Walters said. “I want her to know she’s not beyond help. We’re still here.”
