The Alaska State Troopers are searching for a Nikiski man after a car chase ended with his escape early Thursday morning.
Brandon Bernier, 35, led troopers on a vehicle chase in a red 1989 Buick Reatta after they attempted to stop him “for an equipment violation and speeding near South Miller Loop and Dividend Street” around 1:37 a.m., according to a trooper dispatch. Troopers chased Bernier along Holt-Lamplight Road until he drove the car into a ditch and fled the scene, the dispatch reads.
After questioning a female who was a passenger in the car, troopers found out the vehicle was stolen. When found, Bernier will be charged with vehicle theft, eluding the troopers, assault in the third degree and reckless driving, according to the dispatch.
Alaska State Troopers Public Information Officer Megan Peters said in an email that there is no further information to release about the female passenger, as she has not been charged with anything.
“If anyone has any information regarding this man (Bernier), they are encouraged to provide the information to troopers or the local law enforcement,” Peters said in an email.
Peters said Bernier already has a $10,000 arrest warrant out against him issued by the Seward Courthouse for charges stemming from a previous incident. Court documents show he was charged with vehicle theft in the first and second degree, burglary, and criminal mischief on July 21.
Those with information about the man can call the troopers at 907-262-4453.
Reach Megan Pacer at megan.pacer@peninsulaclarion.com
