Driver Dies After Jumping from Stolen CHP Vehicle During Pursuit

A driver died when he jumped from a stolen California Patrol Vehicle as he attempted to elude other officers.

The driver of a stolen California Highway Patrol car died Tuesday after jumping from the vehicle while it was being pursued by other officers. Authorities estimate the car was traveling about 50 mph when the man jumped.

Officer Alec Pereyda, a CHP spokesman, tells NBC 4 that CHP officers attempted life-saving procedures on the driver and he was rushed to Antelope Valley Hospital, where he died. After the driver exited the vehicle, it continued coasting and struck a ditch and utility pole.

Earlier, officers received reports of a reckless driver on the northbound 5 Freeway and were informed that the vehicle had crashed.

While a CHP officer was investigating the collision between two vehicles, a male entered his patrol vehicle and drove away. Other units pursued the stolen CHP car and prior to the man’s jumping from the vehicle a spike strip deployed by CHP damaged at least one rear tire.

A CHP spokesperson tells FOX 11 there were no reports of any injuries to officers and patrol cars are supposed to be locked with the engine running. Several weapons were locked in the patrol car, but the suspect did not gain access to them.

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