DETROIT – An east side neighborhood is demanding answers after a chase with Warren police turned deadly in Detroit.
Police said they were in the process of backing off when the crash happened.
The chase reportedly started at Sherwood Street and Eight Mile Road, right along Warren’s border with Detroit, when officers attempted a traffic stop for speeding. It ended near East Out Drive and Anglin Street, more than 2.5 miles away. The car flipped multiple times and the driver was ejected from the vehicle, landing about 30 feet away.
“I’m seeing this car flying at least about 120, 130,” said Lonnie Moton, who witnessed the crash. “He swerved to keep from hitting the back of another car, lost control and flipped over 10 times. I jumped out of the car and saw the car flip over and his body fly out the car. I knew he was dead then.”
Warren Police Commissioner Charles Rushton said the vehicle fled from the traffic stop and as it sped down Outer Drive, the pursuit was called off.
“Our officers were on Outer Drive,” Rushton said. “Our officers began to back off because of the speeds that suspect was going.”
The Detroit Police Department is now handling the crash investigation.
Community members said the crash should have never happened and questioned why the vehicle was pursued in the first place.
“It could have been something as simple as a ticket and they’re chasing people,” said Jasmine Wilson.
“It is just sad to see another young man out here gone,” said Stephanie Anderson.
Details regarding the driver who died have not been released as Warren police said they have not yet confirmed his identity.