La Grande man arrested following break-in and I-84 pursuit

By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, April 29th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

LA GRANDE — (Press release from the La Grande Police Department) — On April 29, 2026, at approximately 11:34 a.m., La Grande Police Department officers responded to the 600 block of 18th Street for a report of a domestic disturbance in progress. The caller reported that Justin Benintendi (35), of La Grande, had forced his way into a friend’s apartment and refused to leave. As officers arrived, Benintendi was leaving the area in a vehicle. An officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop; however, Benintendi, who was the sole occupant, fled at a high rate of speed. Due to safety concerns, officers terminated the pursuit after the vehicle exceeded 60 mph on Adams Avenue in heavy traffic.

Benintendi continued onto Interstate 84, where the Oregon State Police observed him traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph and attempted a traffic stop. Benintendi led OSP troopers on a pursuit in both directions of I-84, refusing to stop. The Union County Sheriff’s Office also assisted. The vehicle was ultimately disabled, and Benintendi was taken into custody by the Oregon State Police. OSP will be pursuing their own charges. The La Grande Police Department intends to charge Benintendi with Burglary, Reckless Driving, and Attempting to Elude.

(EMG Note. This release refers to information from the La Grande Police Department only. Both the Oregon State Police and Union County Sheriff’s Office are conducting independent investigations and may bring unique charges)