Deputies Call Off Vehicle Pursuit
On the evening of Wednesday, July 7, 2021, a high-speed pursuit that began on Interstate 80 in Solano County ended in a collision in Contra Costa County, according to investigating authorities.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the vehicle chase started at approximately 6:45 p.m. A patrol car from the Solano County Sheriff’s Office was pursuing a felony suspect vehicle on Interstate 80. Because the suspect was driving dangerously, the deputies stopped their pursuit. Near the I-80 and Highway 12 area in Fairfield, the CHP helicopter began tracking the fleeing vehicle, keeping tabs on it as it raced toward Contra Costa County. The suspect vehicle’s speed was clocked in excess of 120 mph at times.
Suspect Crashes Into Center Divide
Despite the fact that no patrol vehicles were in pursuit, the suspect was driving recklessly and at high speeds, and ultimately lost control of the vehicle past the Carquinez Bridge near I-80 and Pomona, and crashed into the highway’s center divider shortly after 7:00 p.m. The CHP reported that at impact with the center divider, the vehicle was traveling in excess of 100 mph. The driver was rendered unconscious by the crash, but two other occupants of the vehicle exited and ran, according to the CHP. They were quickly detained. The driver was transported by helicopter to a Walnut Creek Hospital. The current condition of the driver is unknown.
The Aftermath of the Accident
The crash ignited a brush fire that charred approximately half an acre. It was extinguished by the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Department.
The investigation, fire, and clean-up necessitated that westbound Interstate 80 in that area be shut down for close to an hour.
Continuing Investigation
Investigation into the incident continues. It is being conducted by the Solano County Sheriff’s Office.
Watch the YouTube video. Below is the CBS Sacramento story on this incident.
Calling Off a Vehicle Pursuit
Many police jurisdictions in California give officers the discretion to call off a high-speed pursuit if they determine it has become too dangerous. Police officers have to weigh the risks to their own safety as well as the safety of the general public when choosing whether to continue a vehicle pursuit. There are some instances, when the suspect is highly dangerous, where a dangerous pursuit may be continued. Many cities and counties have completely discontinued the use of motorcycles and unmarked vehicles in police pursuits, however.
Because the fleeing driver often has no regard for anyone’s safety, police pursuits are highly dangerous. Too many have resulted in injuries to bystanders, and the loss of innocent lives. Once a police helicopter gets involved, the pursuing officers may make the decision to hold back.
The decision by police officers to discontinue a vehicle chase should not be criticized as it is done to protect the public.
Fairfield Car Accident Lawyer
Hello, and thanks for reading our report on this Solano County high-speed pursuit. My name is Ed Smith, and I am a Fairfield car accident lawyer. Every day, car accidents happen throughout our region, and those accidents can cause life-altering injuries. If the negligence of another has resulted in you suffering injuries, please reach out to our injury lawyers for compassionate, free, and friendly advice. From within the local area, dial (707) 564-1900. From other regions within Northern California, please use our toll-free number: (800) 404-5400. Inquiries may also be sent online.
For more than 38 years, our firm has helped Fairfield residents recover compensatory damages in matters of wrongful death and personal injury.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, having concluded a number of cases for settlements and/or verdicts in excess of $1,000,000.
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Photo: https://pixabay.com/illustrations/car-isolated-police-car-auto-3053493/
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