A wanted 18-year old tried to evade police by driving onto the sidewalk, and then was involved in a crash that caused the death of a 3-year-old child and seriously injured a 19-month-old baby girl and two adults, according to Connecticut State Police.
The tragic incident followed an attempt by police to stop Zekhi Eric Lee, a suspect in an ongoing criminal investigation, at about 3:45 p.m. on Nov. 21, in Waterbury, Connecticut.
“The 18-year-old male suspect,” said state police, “refused to stop his vehicle and fled from the Waterbury police officers. The suspect vehicle eventually became involved in a crash.”
Eyewitness Kelly Smith describes the scene:
“The car that was running from the cops did a 360, hit the pole, and then the pole fell on top of four pedestrians—two were babies, and then the two mothers.”
Smith said she and other pedestrians rushed to help and “took the pole off the baby.” Then, noting the extent of the injuries sustained by the victims, those present at the scene immediately contacted emergency medical services.
The suspect fled the scene, with officers in pursuit.
“Immediately after crashing, the suspect fled his vehicle on foot; however, he was apprehended by Waterbury police officers a short time later,” state police said.
A total of five people were transported to hospitals, according to a police statement. A 1-year-old girl and two women ages 21 and 26, are said to have sustained serious injuries, while the driver of the vehicle that was struck by the suspect’s car suffered minor injuries.
The deceased boy has been identified as Justin Quiroz, according to a Fox61 report.
Individuals with information about the incident are urged to contact Western District Major Crimes at 203-267-2200 or text TIP711 with any information to 274637.
State Police Detectives Investigate 11/21 Waterbury fatal crash at S Main & E Liberty St intersection. Anyone who may have any info about the crash is asked to please contact Western District Major Crime @ 203-267-2200 or text TIP711 w/info to 274637. https://t.co/igLEErKTHD pic.twitter.com/JSgMPDP2mc
— CT State Police (@CT_STATE_POLICE) November 22, 2017
