Chico Police Deploy K-9 Unit and Drone to Track Burglary Suspect

CHICO, California — The Chico Police Department deployed advanced tracking technology and specialized units on March 13, 2026, in a high-stakes search for a suspect linked to a residential burglary. The search operation involved both a police K-9 unit and an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) to scour the area.

Officers responded to reports of an active home burglary in progress. Upon arrival, the suspect fled the scene, prompting law enforcement to quickly establish a perimeter. To locate the fleeing individual, officers deployed a drone to provide aerial surveillance over fences and thick brush, while a K-9 team tracked the suspect's scent on the ground.

Residents in the immediate vicinity were advised to stay indoors and secure their properties as the search was conducted. The integration of drone technology has become a vital tool for local police, offering real-time intelligence and keeping officers safe during volatile tracking scenarios. Chico Police have not yet confirmed if the suspect was successfully apprehended or if any property was recovered, but the search highlights the department's rapid response capabilities. The investigation is ongoing.