Gloucester, Mass. – On Saturday night, a 21‑year‑old Gloucester resident allegedly fled a traffic stop conducted by the Essex Police Department, accelerating to nearly 100 mph before crashing into another vehicle near 598 Essex Avenue.
Police pursuit and crash
At approximately 11 p.m., an Essex police sergeant was performing speed‑enforcement operations on Route 133 when he observed a vehicle traveling about 50 mph in a 30‑mph zone. When the officer attempted to pull the driver over, the motorist accelerated, prompting the sergeant to initiate a pursuit.
According to the department, the suspect’s speed climbed to roughly 100 mph as the vehicle approached the Gloucester line. Concerned for public safety, the sergeant discontinued the chase and redirected resources to locate the fleeing car.
Collision and emergency response
Shortly after the pursuit was halted, officers found the suspect’s car had collided with another vehicle near 598 Essex Avenue. The impact caused the suspect’s automobile to catch fire. The Gloucester Fire Department arrived promptly and extinguished the blaze.
Two occupants of the struck vehicle were transported to a local hospital for evaluation. The driver of the fleeing car and his passenger were also taken to the same facility for medical assessment.
Charges filed
Essex police have charged the driver with multiple offenses, including speeding, reckless assault with a motor vehicle, and operating under the influence (OUI) – second offense – among other counts. The suspect’s identity is being withheld pending his court appearance, as he has not yet been booked.
Ongoing investigation
The investigation remains active. Authorities are reviewing dash‑camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to fully reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.
Residents are reminded that reckless driving endangers not only the driver but also innocent motorists and pedestrians. Law‑enforcement agencies across the region continue to emphasize the importance of obeying speed limits and cooperating with police during traffic stops.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
