Fatal Crash Follows Police Pursuit in La Palma
A tragic multi-vehicle collision in La Palma, California, claimed one life Wednesday afternoon, following a police pursuit that began after a reported theft at a Fullerton Albertsons grocery store. The incident unfolded around 1 p.m., leaving a community reeling and investigators working to piece together the events.
According to the Fullerton Police Department, the pursuit began after two individuals suspected of shoplifting from the Albertsons initiated a high-speed chase. During the pursuit, the suspects’ vehicle collided with another car before continuing to flee. The suspects’ vehicle briefly disappeared from police view after entering the 91 Freeway, only to reappear minutes later on surface streets in La Palma, prompting law enforcement to resume the chase.
The chase culminated in a devastating intersection crash at La Palma Avenue and Moody Street, involving three additional vehicles. Sadly, one person in a vehicle unrelated to the pursuit perished in the collision. “One person who was in one of the other vehicles was killed in the crash,” confirmed Fullerton police.
The two suspects involved in the initial theft were apprehended at the scene and transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. NewsChopper 4 aerial footage showed three vehicles with notable damage, along with a minivan that appeared to have sustained less severe damage.
The Fullerton Police Department is leading the ongoing investigation into this tragic incident. Authorities are working to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the crash and are appealing to any witnesses to come forward with information.
This incident underscores the serious risks associated with high-speed pursuits and the devastating consequences that can result from such actions. The community mourns the loss of life and awaits further details from the ongoing investigation.
