Hostage-Case Suspect Still Eludes Police

Huntington Beach police continued their search Sunday for a man who allegedly led them on a short car chase and then broke into a residence where he held three people hostage Saturday night.

Robert Frin Darling, 46, of Garden Grove fled Huntington Beach police after he made an illegal turn near Lilac Lane and Toulouse Drive about 5:30 p.m. Saturday, authorities said.

After leading them on a mile-long car chase, Darling abandoned his car and fled on foot, brandishing a handgun, Lt. Luis Ochoa said.

While police cordoned off and searched the area, Darling reportedly entered an apartment complex near Elk Circle and took three adults hostage.

Darling did not harm any of the hostages but later forced one to drive him to a nearby gas station, police said.

Several hours later, a couple arrived at police headquarters and said they and their adult son had been taken hostage.

Police said they found what they believe was Darling’s pistol. Anyone with information about Darling is urged to call Huntington Beach police at (714) 375-5066.