A Colorado man has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to felony eluding a peace officer following a dangerous pursuit through Douglas County in January. Zakary Dean Hirschfield, 24, of Centennial, led authorities on a chase that reached speeds exceeding 100 mph.
The pursuit began when a Douglas County sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop for speeding. According to authorities, Hirschfield accelerated toward the deputy, forcing the officer to jump out of the way. Video released by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office captures the nighttime escape through traffic.
Hirschfield's vehicle traveled through Highlands Ranch and Littleton, crossing medians and driving against traffic before ultimately crashing into another vehicle. After abandoning the wrecked car and his passenger, Hirschfield fled on foot.
A manhunt ensued, involving dozens of deputies, specialized units, and aerial resources, including drones equipped with thermal imaging. Approximately an hour after the initial stop, deputies located Hirschfield hiding beneath a porch. He was found wearing only his underwear. Body camera footage shows deputies restraining him.
During a search of Hirschfield's vehicle, authorities discovered cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly stated that the incident demonstrates that putting deputies and the public at risk will not be tolerated.
District Attorney George Brauchler commented that Hirschfield should have been incarcerated prior to the chase, citing a history of legal issues. Court documents indicate that in November 2024, Hirschfield received probation for attempted distribution of fentanyl. His probation was revoked, reinstated, and then a new motion to revoke it was filed on August 19, 2025, the same day he was released on a new felony robbery charge in Jefferson County without bail.
Deputy District Attorney Zach Idris noted that Hirschfield's actions put countless lives at risk and that he will now serve several years in the Department of Corrections.