McCloud, CA – December 10, 2025 – One suspect has been taken into custody following a dramatic early-morning pursuit and shootout in McCloud on December 9, but authorities continue to search for his accomplice.
At 7:37 p.m. on December 9, Siskiyou County Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue released a video detailing the capture and detention of 36-year-old Stephen Kristopher Robles. Robles, who was due for court sentencing that day on prior charges, was apprehended after a tense standoff that disrupted the small Siskiyou County community.
The incident began around 6:15 a.m. on December 9 when Robles and 35-year-old Leanne Elizabeth Varao engaged in a high-speed chase with a Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office deputy. During the pursuit, the pair fired multiple rounds at the deputy’s vehicle before abandoning their vehicle and fleeing on foot in the McCloud area. Both were last seen wearing dark-colored clothing and are considered armed and dangerous.
Residents were instructed to shelter in place, leading to school delays and heightened community alert. Varao remains at large, and the public is urged to avoid contact and immediately call 911 if sighted.
For tips, contact the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 841-2900, referencing case #25-2143. Media inquiries: (530) 598-1647. This remains an active investigation.
