A high-speed chase turned deadly when a motorcyclist collided with a San Jose patrol car, becoming the city's fifth traffic death of the year. The San Jose Police Department (SJPD) reported that the incident occurred at the intersection of Story Road and Jackson Avenue, on the evening of January 30.
The motorcyclist, riding a 2006 Kawasaki, fled from an enforcement stop attempted by the SJPD's Violent Crimes Enforcement Team (VCET), speeding eastbound on Story Road, the SJPD disclosed. After the motorcyclist sped away, police opted not to initiate a pursuit. However, the situation escalated when the motorcycle ran a red light and slammed into an unrelated marked police vehicle that was executing a legal U-turn on a green light.
In the aftermath of the collision, on-scene officers attempted life-saving measures before the injured rider was transferred to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, the man later died from his injuries. The Santa Clara County Coroner's Office is tasked with releasing the identity of the deceased after notifying his next of kin.
Onlookers and witnesses with any information have been urged to contact Detective DelliCarpini of the SJPD's Traffic Investigations Unit. The SJPD has also appealed to the public to submit tips that could lead to further insights into the collision. Submissions can be made via the P3TIPS mobile app, calling the tip line, or through the Crime Stoppers website, they announced.
A grim tally now stands at five for San Jose, marking the city's fifth fatal collision and corresponding death in the new year. The SJPD continues its investigations into these incidents, hoping to prevent future tragedies on the road.
Tipsters contributing vital information that results in an arrest may be rewarded with cash, courtesy of the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program. The official report by Officer Tanya Hernandez, including a request for community assistance, was duly authorized by Sergeant Palmer and can be accessed here.
