Chopper Searches Backyards For Man Who Fled Police

A traffic stop turned into a short, unsuccessful manhunt Wednesday evening when the passenger in the vehicle stopped by police fled on foot.

At about 9:45 p.m., police conducted a traffic stop at Trabuco Road and Cherry Avenue.

While the driver stayed put, the male passenger hopped out of the car and booked it eastbound on Trabuco, jumping a fence to flee deputies.

Orange County Sheriff's Department police units and a helicopter equipped with infrared sensors scoured the area for the man to no avail.

The man, believed to have the first name of Alex, is described as white; 5 feet 10 inches tall; 200 pounds; and wearing all black clothing. 

Initial information that he lives at an address on Chapel Hill Drive proved unfounded. Authorities say the unidentified fleeing man is believed to be a Mission Viejo resident.

Meanwhile, the driver of the vehicle received a ticket for an infraction and was sent on his way.