A high-speed police chase through the streets of San Antonio ended in tragedy last night when a patrol car struck and killed a pedestrian while pursuing a teenager accused of carjacking.
The chain of events began near the 200 block of E. Martin Street at around 8 p.m. on Friday, when a 17-year-old suspect and another individual, allegedly committed an aggravated robbery, stealing a car and a woman's purse from a young couple, Fox San Antonio reported. The victims complied with the demands, and the suspects fled with the vehicle.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, the stolen vehicle was equipped with GPS, which allowed officers to locate it quickly. When they attempted to stop the car, the suspects eluded police once again before being spotted around 10:30 p.m. As officers tried for a second time to apprehend the driver, identified as Rene Camarillo, he sped away, precipitating another chase.
During the pursuit, a woman, who was on the street became collateral damage as she was struck by one of the police cars involved in the chase. Officers stopped immediately to assist her, however, she died at the scene, according to KSAT. Camarillo, after abandoning the stolen car, attempted to escape on foot but was eventually apprehended.
Camarillo now faces multiple charges, including murder, for his involvement in the events leading to the pedestrian’s death. The police department has informed that the officer, involved in the fatal collision, has been reassigned to administrative duty while the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the identity of the victim has not yet been released pending notification of her family.
