You are going to kill us': Hayward man charged with kidnapping an on-duty cop

"Jonathan Vaca and Officer Timothy Brown were hurtling down the righthand shoulder of Interstate 880 at an estimated 80 miles per hour, both unrestrained by seat belts, Vaca struggling to steer in a straight line as Brown fought him for control of the vehicle's gear shift, authorities said in court filings."

"A few minutes ago, it had started as a routine traffic stop over a relatively minor traffic violation, but within moments it had devolved into a life and death struggle in a speeding video."

"Brown had a reason for the request; he observed what he believed was a sign the Honda's federal label had been tampered with, and he wanted to inspect the car for potential VIN switching, according to court records."

On New Year's Eve 2025, CHP Officer Timothy Brown pulled over Jonathan Vaca's Honda Accord on Interstate 880 for window tint violations. During the stop, Brown observed signs of vehicle tampering and requested Vaca exit the car to sign a citation. When Vaca refused and requested a supervisor, Brown attempted to physically remove him. Vaca then drove away at approximately 80 miles per hour with Brown trapped inside the vehicle, both unrestrained. The two struggled for control of the gear shift as the car sped down the freeway shoulder. Vaca eventually escaped, but authorities obtained a warrant for his arrest on kidnapping charges. He was arrested three weeks later and charged with kidnapping a police officer, resisting officers, and evading police. Vaca posted $75,000 bail and pleaded not guilty.

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