Juvenile driver involved in fatal crash after police chase in Tupelo

The Tupelo Police Department is investigating a fatal crash that followed a police pursuit early Sunday morning. The incident occurred around 12:50 a.m. after officers attempted to stop a stolen vehicle on North Gloster Street, according to authorities.

Officers received an alert about the stolen vehicle entering the city limits. They located a matching vehicle exiting a parking lot on North Gloster Street and confirmed it was stolen. The officer followed the vehicle and observed traffic violations before initiating a traffic stop near North Gloster Street and Barnes Crossing.

The vehicle failed to stop, fled the scene, and a brief pursuit ensued. The driver continued south on North Gloster Street, turning onto Symphony Lane and Mall Drive. During a turn, the vehicle struck a curb and continued fleeing until losing control and crashing into a tree on Mall Drive. Authorities say officers did not use physical force to stop the vehicle.

After the crash, the driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. Officers found multiple juveniles inside the stolen vehicle and began rendering aid to the occupants. All were transported to a hospital by ambulance. One juvenile passenger later died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The driver has been identified as a juvenile. Police said any charging decisions will be made through Lee County Youth Court and the District Attorney’s Office. Due to the involvement of minors, additional details about the incident have not been released.

Source: Original Article