Woman killed when driver fleeing traffic stop crashes into Clearwater building

CLEARWATER, FL – Police said a driver fleeing a traffic stop was involved in a fatal crash in Clearwater early Wednesday morning, WTSP reports.

Clearwater police said an officer tried to stop an SUV on Court Street near Missouri Avenue shortly after midnight. The SUV driver took evasive action by making a U-turn and heading west on Court Street, according to police, who said the officer did not pursue the vehicle.

At the intersection of Court Street and Chestnut Street, witnesses said the SUV driver went the wrong-way and drove into traffic. To avoid hitting a person head-on, the driver swerved, lost control and struck a nearby building.

A woman who was in the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver was hospitalized at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

Police said the SUV driver will be charged in connection with the incident. The driver, whose name was not released, was reported to have been in prison multiple times in the past.

Have you been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident caused by another driver’s recklessness? If so, the Clearwater Car Accident Lawyers at Kemp Law Group are here to offer our assistance during your time of need. We are dedicated to helping accident victims like you get the compensation they deserve.  Call us today at 727-847-4878 or respond in our online chat box to schedule a free consultation where we can discuss your case and your legal options.