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Virginia Beach, VA (March 8, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash early on Sunday morning in Virginia Beach left two drivers injured.
The incident occurred around 12:29 a.m. near the intersection of Independence Boulevard and Holland Road. According to the Virginia State Police, a trooper observed a Ram 1500 that had reportedly eluded officers from the Virginia Beach Police Department.
Authorities said the truck accelerated after passing the trooper and exited Interstate 264 at Independence Boulevard before continuing at a high rate of speed. A trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop near South Plaza Trail, but the driver fled the scene. Investigators say the suspect ran a red light at the intersection of Independence Boulevard and Holland Road, where the truck collided with a red Mazda Sedan and a Honda Accord.
The police identified the driver of the truck as Leon A. Pena. After the crash, he was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities said he now faces charges including driving while intoxicated and eluding law enforcement. It was reported that the driver of the Mazda, Naomi Kiesow of Norfolk, Virginia, was transported to a hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Honda, Gavin Rodriguez of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was also taken to a hospital and treated for minor injuries. Officials continue to investigate the crash as additional details may emerge.
We extend our thoughts to those injured in this crash and wish them a full recovery.
Crashes Involving Fleeing Drivers Can Put Many Motorists at Risk
Crashes involving drivers attempting to flee from law enforcement can create dangerous conditions for other motorists. When a driver speeds away from a traffic stop, they may disregard traffic signals, roadway conditions, and the safety of others on the road.
Busy intersections such as Independence Boulevard and Holland Road often experience steady traffic flow throughout the day and night. Running a red light at such intersections can significantly increase the risk of multi-vehicle collisions.
Investigators reviewing these incidents typically analyze surveillance footage, vehicle damage patterns, traffic signal timing, and witness statements to determine how the crash occurred and whether additional factors contributed to the collision.
