by Fort Pierce, Fla. – In a dramatic arrest on October 24, 2025, Florida K-9 units played a crucial role in catching multiple suspects involved in a stolen car crash, who attempted to evade law enforcement by swimming through a canal while wearing ski masks and carrying a fake gun. The incident highlights the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts across county lines.
Authorities from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO) located the stolen vehicle, originally taken from Brevard County, around 10:20 a.m. as it turned onto Holding Road. When deputies tried to stop the car near a dead-end, the driver lost control and crashed into the canal bank brush. Four individuals fled the scene on foot, but rapid response teams, including K-9 units, quickly moved to apprehend them.
An Unlikely Escape Through Water and Woods
The suspects’ escape attempt was far from ordinary. After the crash, two juveniles were immediately taken into custody, including one caught at the scene. K-9 Deputy Angulo and his partner, Viktor, tracked the second juvenile approximately 200 yards away. Meanwhile, the two adult suspects made a desperate move by swimming across the C-24 canal and entering a nearby citrus grove to avoid capture.
Reinforcements arrived with the Fort Pierce Police Department’s K-9 Officer Patriani and his dog Max, who expertly tracked the suspects in the grove. The efforts culminated in the apprehension of 19-year-old Gavin Guthrie of Melbourne, who sustained a K-9 bite during the arrest, and shortly after, 18-year-old John Mullins, also of Melbourne, was arrested.
Recovered Evidence and Legal Charges
Investigators recovered several items from the stolen vehicle that added gravity to the case:
- A replica Sig P365 handgun/airsoft pistol
- Multiple ski masks
- Two gaming systems
Both adult suspects face multiple charges including grand theft of a motor vehicle, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, trespassing, and resisting arrest without violence. Gavin Guthrie additionally faces charges for reckless driving as well as fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
The two juveniles, later confirmed as missing from Charlotte County, were charged with resisting arrest without violence and transferred to the Department of Juvenile Justice.
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Expert Insight and Community Impact
“This case underscores the critical role of K-9 units in swiftly bringing suspects to justice, especially when suspects attempt unconventional escape methods,” said a spokesperson for the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. “Our deputies and the canine teams demonstrated exceptional coordination and persistence.”
For more details on this arrest and ongoing public safety initiatives, visit Fox13 News.
What Comes Next?
The arrests mark a significant victory against theft and related crimes in the region. Authorities continue to investigate and pursue additional charges as evidence is reviewed.
Key Facts to Remember:
- Stolen vehicle recovered from Brevard County
- Use of tactical K-9 tracking led to detainment of all four suspects
- Items recovered included fake gun, ski masks, and stolen gaming consoles
- All suspects face serious charges with juveniles handled by juvenile justice system
What do you think about this daring capture by Florida K-9 units? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
