Rochester, NY (March 13, 2025) – A police pursuit ended in a fatal head-on collision Wednesday night on Portland Avenue near Chapin Street. The crash occurred around 8 p.m. after a driver attempted to flee from an Irondequoit police traffic stop.
According to authorities, an officer tried to pull over a 2006 Kia near Rochester General Hospital after noticing it had improper license plates. Instead of stopping, the driver, a 62-year-old man, sped away, leading officers on a brief chase.
Moments later, the vehicle struck a median near the intersection of Portland Avenue and Chapin Street, veered into oncoming traffic, and collided head-on with another car. Rochester fire crews arrived on the scene and provided first aid while working to free the occupants of both vehicles.
The driver of the Kia was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The occupants of the second vehicle, a 61-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman, suffered serious injuries and were also hospitalized. Fortunately, they are expected to recover.
The New York State Attorney General’s Office is handling the investigation, as is standard protocol when a police pursuit results in a fatality.
Our thoughts are with the victim's family in this difficult time.
Police Pursuit Accidents in New York
High-speed chases pose a significant risk to both the fleeing driver and innocent motorists. Law enforcement officers must make split-second decisions when deciding whether to pursue a suspect, as pursuits can lead to severe or fatal crashes.
In cases like this one, a suspect’s attempt to evade police can result in tragic consequences. At high speeds, losing control of a vehicle can lead to rollovers, head-on collisions, or multi-car pileups. New York has strict guidelines for when police can engage in pursuits, balancing public safety with the need to apprehend suspects.
Victims of pursuit-related crashes may face extensive medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Legal assistance can help them seek compensation for their injuries and damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash caused by reckless driving or a police pursuit, you don’t have to go through the aftermath alone. Local Accident Reports provides essential information and connects victims with the resources they need. Contact us today for support and guidance in navigating your recovery.
