Golden State Today

An incident unfolded in Isla Vista, California, where a local man was apprehended after attempting to evade law enforcement by fleeing into the ocean. The event occurred on the night of November 18, 2024, when deputies were dispatched to the 6600-block of Sabado Tarde following reports of a disturbance involving threats of gun violence.

Upon arrival, officers identified a suspect matching the description provided by witnesses. The individual, later confirmed as 19-year-old Joshua Collard from Isla Vista, attempted to escape by running towards the ocean. Deputies pursued him as he leaped off nearby bluffs onto the beach below. However, Collard's attempt to flee was thwarted when he became trapped due to rising tides.

Santa Barbara County Fire Department personnel assisted in retrieving Collard from his precarious position on the cliffside. Once removed from danger, he was detained by deputies at the scene.

Authorities revealed that prior to his encounter with law enforcement, Collard had assaulted an individual by punching them in the face and had also vandalized a vehicle. Additionally, he made criminal threats against victims involved in the incident.

Following medical clearance, Joshua Collard was booked into Main Jail on several charges. These include felony counts for making criminal threats and assault with force likely to cause significant bodily harm. He also faces misdemeanor charges for vandalism, fighting in public, and resisting arrest. His bail has been set at $50,000.