San Jose, CA – A 17-year-old boy behind the wheel of a stolen car led authorities on a high-speed chase early Wednesday morning, reaching speeds of up to 130 mph before crashing in San Jose, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The pursuit stretched across Interstate 680, Interstate 280, and Highway 87, cutting through parts of Santa Clara County and Alameda County.
How the Pursuit Began
At about 2:15 a.m., officers with the Dublin CHP spotted the stolen vehicle traveling on northbound I-680, south of Vargas Road. The car had been fleeing from San Jose CHP officers at the time.
Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the driver exited at Vargas Road, re-entered northbound I-680, and then quickly switched directions, speeding southbound at dangerous speeds through light traffic.
Chase Through Multiple Highways
The chase continued into San Jose, with the teen weaving onto I-280 before merging onto southbound Highway 87. He then exited at Curtner Avenue, only to circle back onto northbound Highway 87.
The pursuit ended when the teen exited northbound Highway 87 at Julian Street in downtown San Jose and crashed at Terraine Street, authorities said as per NBC Bay Area.
Driver Taken Into Custody
The 17-year-old driver suffered minor injuries in the wreck but was taken into custody without further incident. Authorities confirmed that the vehicle had been stolen out of Hayward.
Law enforcement officials emphasized the severe dangers of high-speed pursuits, particularly when they involve teenage drivers. Authorities noted that such reckless driving not only endangers the suspect but also puts the lives of innocent motorists at risk. The CHP stated that stricter enforcement and awareness efforts will continue to address the rise in vehicle thefts and dangerous pursuits in the Bay Area.
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