Cheviot, OH (March 14, 2025) – A high-speed police chase late Thursday night ended in a violent crash, leaving one person injured and a driver under arrest.
According to the Cheviot Police Department, the pursuit began around 11:30 p.m. when officers observed 19-year-old Zachary Cole driving without headlights. As an officer followed him, Cole ran a red light, prompting law enforcement to initiate a traffic stop. Instead of pulling over, he sped away, continuing to run red lights while evading police.
During the chase, Cole reportedly reached speeds of up to 80 miles per hour before ultimately crashing head-on into an oncoming vehicle. The impact sent the other car into a roadside ditch, leaving one of its occupants with a laceration to the ear. Fortunately, the other passengers in the struck vehicle were largely unharmed.
Following the crash, Cole was taken into custody and charged with failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer and aggravated vehicular assault. Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Our thoughts go out to those affected, and we hope for a swift recovery for the injured individual.
High-Speed Crashes and Police Chases in Ohio
Police chases, particularly those involving reckless drivers, pose serious risks to both law enforcement and innocent motorists. When suspects attempt to evade officers at high speeds, the chances of severe or fatal crashes increase significantly. In Ohio, pursuits often lead to dangerous collisions, especially when suspects ignore traffic signals and travel at excessive speeds.
Law enforcement agencies must balance public safety with the need to apprehend fleeing suspects. Many departments have strict pursuit policies to reduce the likelihood of harm to bystanders and other drivers. However, reckless fleeing suspects continue to endanger lives.
For those injured in crashes caused by reckless drivers, seeking medical treatment and understanding legal options is essential. If you or someone you love has been impacted by a high-speed crash, help is available. Our team at Local Accident Reports is here to connect you with valuable resources and guidance. Contact us today to learn more about your options for support and recovery.