Man dies after fleeing traffic stop, crashing during pursuit in Tuolumne County
A 37-year-old Angels Camp man died late Thursday night after fleeing a traffic stop and crashing his vehicle during a pursuit in Tuolumne County, authorities said.
According to the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle around 11 p.m. Thursday near Mono Way and Hillsdale Drive while investigating suspected theft activity.
The Sheriff’s Office said the deputy observed a man later identified as Gideon Guy Griffin checking doors at a closed business, removing bags from outside the business and placing them into his vehicle, then driving slowly around other closed business in the area.
A records check later revealed that Griffin had an outstanding Post Release Community Supervision warrant for his arrest, authorities said.
When the deputy initiated the traffic stop, Griffin failed to yield and instead fled in his vehicle, prompting a pursuit. During the pursuit, Griffin drove at high speeds and crossed into oncoming traffic lanes multiple times, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the pursuit ended on Highway 108 near South Sunshine Road, where Griffin was driving outside the designated traffic lane when his vehicle swerved, struck a traffic sign, left the roadway and crashed into a ditch.
Deputies rendered medical aid following the crash until emergency medical personnel arrived. Griffin was pronounced dead at the scene, the Sheriff’s Office said.
The California Highway Patrol responded and is investigating the crash. No additional information is being released at this time due to the ongoing investigation.
This story was originally published January 20, 2026 at 11:38 AM.
