Gilroy, California – A late-night home invasion in Gilroy escalated into a multi-agency police chase through Morgan Hill early Thursday, ending with two suspects arrested and at least two others still on the run. Authorities say the suspects robbed a family at gunpoint, stole a luxury vehicle, and attempted to flee before being stopped by law enforcement.
Incident Overview
The incident began shortly after midnight on January 30, when deputies with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of an armed home invasion in a quiet residential neighborhood of Gilroy. According to investigators, multiple masked suspects forcibly entered a home, threatened occupants with firearms, and stole valuables before fleeing the scene in the victims’ BMW.
Law enforcement later tracked the stolen vehicle as it moved through South County, triggering a coordinated pursuit involving several police agencies.
Timeline of Events
Deputies were dispatched at approximately 12:35 a.m. to the 9100 block of Paseo Tranquillo after residents reported an armed robbery in progress. Authorities say at least four suspects entered the home wearing masks and carrying handguns.
After taking personal property, the suspects escaped in the victims’ vehicle. Using the South County network of Flock license plate readers, investigators quickly identified the stolen BMW and tracked its movement toward Morgan Hill.
Officers with the Morgan Hill Police Department, assisted by the California Highway Patrol and Gilroy Police Department, initiated a vehicle pursuit once the car was located.
Details From Police and Officials
Authorities say the pursuit ended after officers deployed spike strips and conducted a mobile PIT maneuver, disabling the stolen BMW and bringing it to a stop. Two occupants were taken into custody at the scene without further incident.
In a statement shared by the sheriff’s office, deputies confirmed that evidence recovered from the vehicle included a loaded firearm, stolen property, and illegal narcotics.
“During the arrest, deputies located a loaded firearm, stolen items from the residence, and drugs, including a large amount of methamphetamine, inside the vehicle,” the sheriff’s office said.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Date: January 30
- Time of home invasion: 12:35 a.m.
- Location: 9100 block of Paseo Tranquillo, Gilroy
- Suspects involved: At least four
- Vehicle stolen: BMW
- Arrests made: 2 suspects
- Suspects at large: At least two
The arrested individuals were identified as Steward Nagata, 45, of Merced, and Sophia Torres, 28.
Charges Filed
Both suspects were booked into jail on suspicion of multiple felony offenses, including:
- Robbery
- Carjacking
- Recklessly evading police
Additional charges related to firearm possession and narcotics may be considered as the investigation continues, authorities said.
Ongoing Search for Additional Suspects
Investigators confirmed that at least two additional suspects involved in the home invasion managed to escape and remain at large. Law enforcement agencies across South County are continuing to follow leads, review surveillance footage, and analyze license plate reader data to identify and locate the remaining individuals.
Residents in Gilroy and surrounding areas are being urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to police.
Community Safety and Awareness
Authorities say this case highlights the increasing role of technology, such as license plate readers, in tracking stolen vehicles and responding quickly to violent crimes. At the same time, officials are reminding residents to take basic home safety precautions, including securing doors and windows, using exterior lighting, and reporting unfamiliar vehicles or individuals in residential areas.
Police also caution the public not to approach anyone they believe may be connected to the incident, noting that suspects are considered armed and dangerous.
Conclusion
What began as a violent home invasion in Gilroy quickly turned into a high-speed, multi-agency pursuit that resulted in two arrests and the recovery of weapons, drugs, and stolen property. While authorities say the swift response helped prevent further harm, the search continues for additional suspects believed to be involved in the crime.
Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
