By: Alex Mazer | NBC4
Published: November 21, 2012
Updated: November 21, 2012 - 4:38 PM

COLUMBUS, Ohio --

Five people were taken into custody after an early-morning chase that led officers across the city’s west side.

The chase began at Westgate and Sullivant avenues as agents were investigating an immigration issue Wednesday before 7:30 a.m.

An agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) called 911, asking for assistance.

Columbus police responded and the chase continued for at least 25 minutes.

The caller indicated that there were several people in a white van, and that some of the people inside exited the vehicle and ran.

The white van continued, and the chase ended in the area of Blue Rock Blvd.

Five people were apprehended, but no information was released on whether the people are suspected in other crimes.

Three of the people who were apprehended were later released.

While immigration lawyer Gus Shihab said he is not familiar with the case that sparked the chase, he said most undocumented residents are following all laws, except when it comes to status.

"Most of them are law abiding people. They want to be here supporting their families and earn a living," Shihab said. "They go to work. Go home. Stay home and stay out of trouble."

He said laws need to change and things need to be reworked to keep workers employed.

"They establish their families here and to send them home, you have a broken family, economic hardships," Shihab said.

5 Apprehended After Chase With Columbus Police, ICE Agents | NBC 4i