Driver Intentionally Rear-Ends Cop, Then Goes On 100 MPH Chase On Turnpike

Dashcam footage released by the Florida Highway Patrol on June 6th reveals a harrowing experience on the Florida Turnpike.

According to a story which appeared on the CBS Local Miami website, trooper Vanessa Franceschi was conducting a routine traffic stop in Miami-Dade in April when her cruiser was intentionally rear-ended by a Honda Civic. The driver of the Civic then immediately sped off, with Trooper Franceschi in pursuit.

Franceschi continued to pursue the suspect vehicle which at times drove on the right shoulder of the road, throwing up debris in its wake. According to the FHP, at times the high-speed chase on the Florida Turnpike reached speeds of 100 mph.

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Trooper Franceschi was eventually able to stop them by using a Pursuit Intervention Technique or PIT maneuver to push the suspect vehicle into a retaining wall on the left side of the Turnpike.

Franceschi, assisted by officers from additional law enforcement agencies who had come to assist, was able to place the suspect under arrest.

Trooper Franceschi was transported to an area hospital to be treated for minor injuries sustained in the initial crash. She is expected to be ok.

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In an interview, Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol said, “I am grateful that Trooper Franceschi was not seriously injured and was able to act immediately to ensure the suspect was stopped from committing any additional crimes against law enforcement and the public.”

Related: High Speed Chase through Several Counties Leads to Arrest

The suspect in the incident has been charged with aggravated battery on a police officer, fleeing and attempting to evade police. The suspect’s identity has not been released by authorities so far.