Dramatic Car Crash and Explosion Near Prescott Leads to 70-Year-Old’s Arrest

Prescott police have confirmed the detention of 70-year-old James Crespo following a series of dangerous events on Tuesday afternoon, which involved a car crash and an explosion.

The incident unfolded shortly after 4 p.m. when the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from Prescott police to locate Crespo, who was wanted on multiple felony charges and had an outstanding warrant from Maricopa County for previous evasion of law enforcement.

Crespo was allegedly armed and had made threats to harm others, including police officers. Authorities initiated a search and spotted Crespo driving on Thumb Butte Road. Despite attempts to stop him, Crespo refused to comply.

In an effort to obstruct his route, police deployed spike strips near Idlewild Drive. Crespo halted momentarily, ignited a blow torch, and then drove over the strips, heading into a nearby neighborhood.

Deputies from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office successfully located him and attempted to corner him. At this point, Crespo reportedly rammed his vehicle into a Prescott police car, triggering an explosion inside his vehicle.

Crespo emerged from his burning vehicle, armed with a propane tank and blow torch, but was apprehended by police using less-than-lethal force. He was subsequently airlifted to a Phoenix hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Fortunately, no other individuals were injured during this chaotic episode. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities expect to release additional details soon. Information regarding Crespo’s current condition has not been disclosed.