Photo: Chris Smith
OROVILLE – On Saturday morning a deputy saw a vehicle recklessly crossing double lines in an effort to pass other vehicles on the road. This incident occurred near Ophir and Baggett Marysville Roads.
An attempted traffic stop became a pursuit after the driver sped up instead of stopping. The chase sometimes reached 90 mph.
The pursuing deputy received instructions to stop the chase to ensure public safety. As the pursuit ended, the deputy saw the fleeing suspect go through a red light at Oro Dam Boulevard and hit a Chevy Sedan, then a tow truck.
27-year-old Chris Smith required medical attention on his way to jail. The BCSO says, “Smith was on Post Release Community Supervision for Vehicle Theft and has a Felony Warrant for his arrest for Vehicle Theft and Felony Evading.”
The two occupants of the van were also taken to the hospital for injuries.
Smith has already fled from CHP authorities three times this year. He was charged with reckless driving, felony evading, violation of post release community supervision and possession of burglary tools.
