Heavy traffic was reported on I-80 near Berkeley as a result of a car chase initiated by a Contra Costa County sheriff’s deputy. The deputy identified a stolen vehicle in San Pablo at around 7:48 p.m. with two individuals inside.
The initial chase was called off due to the stolen vehicle’s reckless driving. However, another deputy spotted the same vehicle on I-80 westbound and began pursuing it. The car eventually stopped near the Powell Street exit due to mechanical issues.
The driver and passenger exited the suspect vehicle and attempted to flee. The driver, while running across the eastbound lanes of I-80, was struck by a separate vehicle. The driver was taken to the hospital, but their condition remains unknown currently.
The passenger managed to escape and is still at large. The incident is currently under investigation by authorities. This situation underscores the risks associated with high-speed chases and underscores the challenges law enforcement faces while ensuring public safety.