REDDING, Calif. — In a dramatic sequence of events on Thursday afternoon, Redding police arrested Darlene Steiger after she allegedly picked up her children from school while intoxicated and led officers on a high-speed chase.
The incident began when Steiger’s 18-year-old son, concerned about his mother’s condition, discreetly texted 911. He reported that Steiger appeared to be driving under the influence after collecting him and his younger siblings, aged 13 and 11, from school.
Authorities located Steiger’s vehicle near East Cypress Avenue and Churn Creek Road. However, before they could initiate a traffic stop, Steiger reportedly accelerated away. In an effort to halt the vehicle, officers deployed a spike strip, successfully puncturing one of the car’s tires. Despite the damage, Steiger continued driving.
The pursuit concluded at a relative’s residence on Phobos Court, where Steiger abandoned the vehicle, leaving her children inside, and attempted to flee on foot. Officers apprehended her in the yard of the property.
Subsequent tests revealed that Steiger’s blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit for driving. She was taken into custody and faces multiple charges related to driving under the influence and child endangerment.
