By: Richard L. Smith
A police pursuit through Newark turned fatal early Friday morning as law enforcement agencies responded to the tragic incident that unfolded around 6:30 a.m.
Preliminary information residents indicates that New Jersey State Troopers were engaged in a pursuit of a white vehicle whose driver refused to stop despite officers' flashing lights and sirens.
The pursuit escalated as the young driver reportedly sped through various parts of Newark at an exceptionally high rate of speed.
The harrowing chase ultimately led officers to the intersection of Central Avenue and 2nd Street. Here, the fleeing vehicle collided with a garbage truck, resulting in the driver becoming trapped inside the severely damaged car.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but tragically, they were unable to save the driver, who was pronounced dead at the location.
No other injuries were reported in connection with this incident. Authorities have not immediately reported if any other occupants were inside the vehicle who may have fled the scene during the violent collision.
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office has launched an active and ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and crash.
However, at this time, authorities have not released additional information or identified the driver involved.
Residents in the vicinity of Central Avenue expressed concerns about consistent speeding along the busy street, particularly during late evenings and early morning hours.
The vehicle is believed to be stolen.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by high-speed pursuits in densely populated urban areas.
