Car theft suspect allegedly drives off cliff escape police, survives

(CBS/KCBS) MALIBU - Officials say a man suspected of driving a stolen rental car drove his vehicle off a Malibu cliff Friday in an attempt to escape police. Somehow, he survived.

According to CBS Los Angeles, investigators say Michael Kheop triggered a manhunt about 1:45 p.m. Friday when he drove off the cliff, exited the vehicle and disappeared into heavy brush, evading authorities for over 10 hours.

Police say the man's wife was also in the car, but managed to flee moments before the vehicle plunged off the side.

Meru Kheop told CBS Los Angeles Saturday that she had no idea what her husband of 12 years was thinking.

"He said, 'Get out' and I opened the door and that's when the car turned," she reportedly said.

Police later found Michael Kheop hiding in the laundry room of his apartment building, according to CBS Los Angeles. They say he was arrested without further incident.

Keoph is reportedly expected to be booked on suspicion of attempted murder and driving a vehicle without the owner's consent.