Authorities in Columbus are investigating a crash that left two people dead after a teenage driver allegedly fled from officers and collided with another vehicle Saturday afternoon.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, the incident began when officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Cleveland and Maynard avenues. Officials said officers believed the vehicle may have been connected to a prior incident, prompting them to attempt to pull it over.
Police reported that the driver of the vehicle, later identified as a 17-year-old male, quickly drove away before officers could begin a formal pursuit. Authorities said officers did not actively chase the vehicle, but a short time later the car was involved in a crash a short distance away.
Investigators say the crash occurred at the intersection of Hamilton and 19th avenues. According to preliminary findings, the teenager was driving westbound on 19th Avenue when the vehicle entered the intersection.
Officials said the driver failed to stop at a posted stop sign and struck a Saturn that was traveling northbound through the intersection.
Two people were inside the Saturn at the time of the collision. Authorities later identified them as 71-year-old Franklin Ward and 52-year-old Tessa Berry, both residents of Columbus.
Emergency responders arrived quickly to assist those involved. Police said Berry, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ward, who had been driving the Saturn, was transported to Grant Medical Center for medical treatment. Authorities later confirmed that he died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Following the incident, officers took three individuals from the fleeing vehicle into custody, including the 17-year-old driver. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding potential charges as the investigation continues.
The intersection remained closed for several hours while investigators from the Franklin County Coroner’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol processed the scene and gathered evidence.
Officials say investigations into crashes involving fleeing drivers often include a detailed review of traffic conditions, vehicle movements, and witness statements to better understand how the incident unfolded.
Community members have expressed concern over the events that led to the crash and the loss of two lives. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the case as they work to determine what led to the deadly collision.
As investigators search for answers, many are asking broader questions about traffic safety and driver accountability. What measures do you think communities and law enforcement can take to reduce crashes involving drivers fleeing from traffic stops?
