A man suspected of assaulting a law enforcement officer led authorities on a chase culminating in Malibu at Bluffs Park, where he apparently fled down the side of a hill toward Malibu Road.
The suspect was finally detained without incident just before 9 p.m.
The incident was first reported around 7:45 p.m. at which time traffic ground to a halt on Malibu Road, Malibu Canyon Road and Pacific Coast Highway.
As of 10 p.m., Malibu Canyon Road remains closed. One westbound lane of PCH is closed at Malibu Canyon and eastbound PCH traffic is being diverted to Malibu Road, according to LA Sheriffs. City of Malibu says delays are expected through 11 p.m or later.
Gunshots were reportedly exchanged before the pursuit and traffic on Malibu Road, Malibu Canyon Road and Pacific Coast Highway has been severely impacted. A flood of helicopters, police vehicles and other response vehicles have descended on the Bluffs Park area and residents are advised to avoid the roads.
PCH was shut down at Malibu Canyon Road. One person stuck on PCH tweeted a photo showing drivers apparently getting out of their vehicles in standstill traffic.
The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station said it was running “containment” on the situation but not directly involved in the pursuit.
“We’re just surrounding the area,” said LA County Sheriff Watch Commander Officer Covarrubias.
Conflicting reports are out on how the chase ensued but it appears the suspect allegedly tried to assault a law enforcement official, who then shot at his vehicle.
“The suspect’s car had several bullet holes in the windshield,” ABC reported.
Check back for more information as it becomes available.
Emily Sawicki contributed to this report.
