A police chase tore across Broward County on Thursday and ended in a violent crash on the southbound Florida Turnpike near Sunrise Boulevard, sending at least one driver to the hospital, putting the suspected driver in handcuffs, and shutting down southbound lanes for hours while first responders and multiple agencies worked the scene.
What Happened On The Turnpike
Florida Highway Patrol troopers, Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies and other agencies converged after officers tried to stop a white Ford pickup in the Deerfield Beach area. Authorities say the truck hit a Coconut Creek police cruiser, then continued south on the Turnpike before being stopped with a Precision Immobilization Technique that left the pickup pinned against a wall and a dark sedan spun sideways.
Tamarac Fire Rescue crews were seen performing CPR at the scene, and both drivers were taken to Broward Health Medical Center. The suspected driver was later seen arriving at the hospital in handcuffs. The exact timeline on the ground and the conditions of those involved were still under review, according to WSVN 7News.
Video And Early Reports
A CBS Miami clip showing the aftermath spread quickly online, and a roundup of that footage by Spot On Florida described the crash as deadly and reported that an "innocent motorist" was killed. Local crews at the scene documented CPR efforts and hospital transports, but officials have not released any official death toll while investigators continue their work.
Investigation And Traffic Impact
Florida Highway Patrol said southbound traffic was being forced off the Turnpike at Sunrise Boulevard and urged drivers to use Commercial Boulevard or re-enter the Turnpike south of I-595. "Southbound traffic is being diverted off at Sunrise Boulevard," FHP Lt. Indiana Miranda said in a statement, as reported by Local 10.
Plantation Police assisted in the response while multiple agencies combed the scene and cleared wreckage. Authorities have not yet announced any charges related to the pursuit as the investigation continues.
