San Diego Man Arrested for Armed Carjacking, Kidnapping in Riverside County

A 33-year-old San Diego man, Steven Mata, was arrested for carjacking and kidnapping after he allegedly stole a Nissan Altima at knifepoint in Calimesa and led police on a pursuit towards Palm Springs. The incident began on March 9 when deputies responded to a report of a stolen vehicle; after failing to stop for authorities, the pursuit was temporarily discontinued due to Mata's dangerous driving. The Palm Springs Police later located the vehicle, and both Mata and his passenger, Claudia Ruelas, fled but were apprehended. Mata was booked on multiple charges, including carjacking and felony evading, while Ruelas was cited for an unrelated warrant. The victim of the carjacking managed to escape and reported the incident to law enforcement. This investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are seeking further information from the public.