Cape Coral, FL – On June 27, 2025, at approximately 5:40 a.m., officers with the Cape Coral Police Department responded to a report of a runaway juvenile at McDonald’s, 8 NE Pine Island Rd. The juvenile was believed to be in a white 2013 Nissan Sentra, registered to his father.
Upon arrival, officers observed the vehicle in the McDonald’s parking lot. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled into the adjacent Walgreens parking lot, accelerated away from officers, and ultimately crashed into the south side of the Walgreens building. No damage was sustained by the business.
Five juveniles were detained at the scene. The driver, identified as Jadiel Vargas, was found to be under the influence of alcohol. Officers observed multiple indicators of impairment, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and the odor of alcohol. Numerous alcoholic beverage containers were located inside the vehicle, including one in the driver’s seat.
Field sobriety exercises were conducted, and Vargas subsequently provided a breath sample of .131 BAC. A juvenile passenger sustained a minor ankle injury and was transported to a local hospital by Lee County EMS.
The investigation revealed that the vehicle had been taken without the owner’s consent. The registered owner confirmed he wished to pursue charges for motor vehicle theft.
Jadiel Vargas was arrested and charged with:
- DUI with Person Under 18 in Vehicle (F.S.S. 316.193(4))
- DUI with Property Damage or Injury (2 counts, F.S.S. 316.193(3c1))
- Fleeing/Eluding Law Enforcement with Lights and Siren Active (F.S.S. 316.1935(2))
- Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle (F.S.S. 812.014(2c6))
- No Valid Driver’s License
Arrested: Jadiel Vargas (DOB 02/04/2010)
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