By Scottsbluff Police Department
On Feb. 15, 2026, at approximately 12:48 a.m., Scottsbluff Police were dispatched to the 300 block of E 18th Street in reference to a stolen black 2016 Mazda CX-5.
While details were being gathered from the vehicle owner, a patrol officer located the vehicle in the parking lot of the YMCA in Scottsbluff. The vehicle immediately fled upon sight of the patrol vehicle approaching its location. A vehicle pursuit was initiated to stop the fleeing stolen vehicle.
The suspect proceeded to travel the residential area of E Overland and 5th Ave until the suspect exited the Mazda in the 200 block of E 14th Street and allowing the Mazda to proceed east until impacting a parked vehicle. Both involved vehicles sustained an estimated $5,000 in damages each.
Vehicle speeds of approximately 45 mph were reached on the various residential streets during the approximate 2-minute pursuit. Scottsbluff resident Preston Torres-Islas, 18-years-old, was arrested for the charges of Possession of Stolen Property over $5,000, Flight to Avoid Arrest, Resisting Arrest, Willful Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, No Operators License and several traffic infractions.
Scotts Bluff Sheriff’s Department, Gering Police Department, RWMC Ambulance Services and Scottsbluff Fire Department assisted in the response.