By Shawn Henry 
Two men from Arizona are facing a series of felony and misdemeanor charges after Albuquerque police say a stolen vehicle pursuit ended with an attempted escape through the Albuquerque International Sunport.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by authorities, the incident unfolded after officers with the Albuquerque Police Department’s auto theft unit identified a stolen truck being driven around the city. The vehicle drew attention due to suspicious activity and multiple stops throughout Albuquerque before officers attempted a traffic stop using a marked patrol unit.
Instead of pulling over, the driver fled at a high rate of speed. Police allege the truck was driven aggressively and recklessly, including traveling into oncoming traffic. Air support was requested and assisted officers in tracking the vehicle as it moved through the city. The complaint states the truck reached speeds of up to 100 mph during the pursuit.
The chase ended at the Albuquerque Sunport, where police believe the suspects made a final attempt to evade arrest by entering the airport property. Officers pursued the two individuals on foot inside the airport terminal area. Police reported the suspects resisted officers, requiring the use of force before both were taken into custody.
The individuals were identified as 20-year-old Ivan Cordova and 22-year-old Leonardo Montana, both from Arizona. Investigators reported Montana spoke with officers following his arrest and said he arrived in Albuquerque by Greyhound bus two days earlier. He claimed he did not know Cordova and said they were driving around the city in an effort to purchase an engine.
During the arrest, police found Montana in possession of cocaine. Cordova declined to speak with officers.
Montana was charged with possession of a controlled substance, receiving or transferring a stolen motor vehicle, resisting, evading or obstructing an officer, and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Cordova faces charges including aggravated fleeing law enforcement, reckless driving, resisting, evading or obstructing an officer, receiving or transferring a stolen motor vehicle, and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Both men remain connected to an incident that drew significant attention due to the pursuit’s speed, location, and dramatic conclusion inside the city’s main airport.
All parties are innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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