Atascadero police say a fire last night on El Camino Real is related to a car pursuit, which led to the arrest of the suspected arsonist. Neighbors said that after the fire began in the 15000 block of El Camino Real, a small truck was seen quickly fleeing the residence. Atascadero police learned the vehicle belonged to Charles Scovell, a resident of the house that was on fire.
At 11:46, police located the vehicle and Scovell leaving Motel 6. Scovell refused to comply with a vehicle stop, and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit reached speeds in excess of 100 miles an hour. Spike strips were deployed on SB 101 at Curbaril. That disabled Scovell’s vehicle. Scovell evaded officers and returned to Motel 6. He entered a room he’d rented earlier in the day and refused to surrender. After a lengthy standoff, Scovell was taken into custody.
He was transported to Twin Cities hospital for injuries sustained during the incident. He will be booked at the county jail later today on a number of charges.
