**Breaking News: Armed Suspect in Standoff After High-Speed Chase Through Highland Park**

A tense standoff is currently unfolding in Highland Park as LAPD officers confront an armed suspect following a chaotic high-speed pursuit that left the suspect’s vehicle severely damaged. The incident began with a routine traffic stop, where a woman exited the car on police orders, only for a male passenger to leap into the driver’s seat and flee.

Eyewitnesses report that the suspect, who is believed to be armed, has been driving erratically, losing a front tire and creating sparks as the vehicle struggles to maintain control. The situation escalated quickly, with LAPD confirming that the suspect may be in possession of a firearm, seen during the initial stop. Officers are on high alert, knowing that the suspect’s erratic driving poses a significant threat to public safety.

The chase reached speeds of over 30 miles per hour, with the suspect weaving dangerously close to parked cars and pedestrians. Police have deployed spike strips in an attempt to immobilize the vehicle, but the suspect remains defiant, making erratic movements inside the car and appearing to signal to individuals nearby, raising concerns about potential accomplices.

As smoke billows from the vehicle, the situation grows increasingly precarious. Officers are hesitant to engage directly due to the suspect’s possible access to a weapon, opting instead to contain the area and wait for the suspect to surrender. Reports indicate that the suspect has been observed holding what appears to be narcotics, further complicating the volatile situation.

Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors as they work to resolve this standoff safely. The LAPD has heightened their presence in the area, prepared for any escalation. As the standoff continues, the community watches anxiously, hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution. Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.