Fugitive wanted in Whittier attack on deputies captured in Mexico

Officials announced Saturday that capture of a fugitive from the FBI's Top Ten Most Wanted list who is suspected of attacking two sheriff's deputies with an assault rifle in Whittier nearly nine years ago.
Emigdio Preciado Jr., 39, was arrested late Friday in Mexico and is identity was confirmed by by Mexican Federal Police and FBI agents stationed south of the border, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said in a written statement.
Eimiller declined to discuss further details of the arrest, saying it was still very early in the process.
"We'll have more of a clear picture on Monday," she said.
Preciado has been sought by law enforcement since Sept. 5. 2000, when he allegedly opened fire on two sheriff's deputies with an AK-47 during a routine traffic stop on Gunn Avenue, north of Mulberry Drive in Whittier.
"Preciado fired 21 rounds from an assault rifle, striking one of the deputies in the head," according to a statement issued by the FBI.
Deputy Michael Schaap suffered brain damage in the attack. He continues to work with the sheriff's department, though he's had to re-learn to walk and talk.
The other deputy involved in the shooting, David Timberlake, escaped injury.
Video surfaced in 2000 of the fugitive dancing at a party in Tepuzhuacan, Mexico.

*PHOTO of Emidio Preciado courtesy of the FBI.