Kidnapping, shooting suspect nabbed: Stolen truck crashed after chase

An man wanted for kidnapping and attempted murder in July was taken into custody Tuesday after a 16-mile chase.

Dustin James Woodruff, 27, was arrested in connection with the shooting and beating of Bryan Santana, 35, of Placerville, on July 2 of this year, according to the Sheriff’s Department.

Marshall Hospital had reported the July incident when Santana arrived seeking treatment for a motorcycle accident. However, staff noted the injuries were not consistent with a motorcycle accident and believed he had been shot. Hospital staff notified the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, who then contacted Santana. He eventually admitted to being shot, but did not know how he was shot or who shot him. He was treated and survived the injury.

The case was investigated and a month later, it was discovered that Santana had allegedly been kidnapped and shot by Woodruff. Woodruff was on probation and had outstanding out-of-county arrest warrants. As he had violated his terms of probation, he avoided contact from law enforcement. Further investigation led to suspicion that Woodruff may have committed multiple property crimes around the county.

Deputies spotted Woodruff driving a Meeks Lumber pickup truck on Highway E-16 just after 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 25. Deputies discovered the truck had allegedly been stolen from the lumber company in Amador County and an attempt was made to stop the vehicle. Woodruff ignored the deputies and a chase ensued.

Spike strips were used, but Woodruff continued to drive on flat tires. A few miles later, however, Woodruff lost control of the vehicle and ran into an embankment, putting an end to the 16-mile, 23-minute chase. The truck rolled over and Woodruff attempted to flee.

He was captured by deputies a short distance from the overturned truck. He was arrested on charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and multiple property crimes. He is currently in custody with bail set at $77,500.

Anyone with information regarding the kidnapping, shooting or any property crimes Woodruff may have been involved with is asked to please contact detective Mike Lensing at 530-642-4703.

Cole Mayer

Cole Mayer started writing for the Mountain Democrat in early 2012. He has written news, features and opinions in the past, and currently works the crime, court and fire beat.

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