RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) -
A Virginia State Police trooper is in the hospital after he crashed into a van carrying three children while in pursuit of a suspect.
The crash ended on Everett Street at the intersection near Commerce Road on Richmond's south side.
State Police are still working to piece together what led to this crash, including finding the suspect the trooper was chasing.
The chase started after the trooper M.W. Deus pulled a van over for expired plates and tinted windows. As he approached the van, the driver took off. Deus rushed back to his cruiser to go after the suspect. As they came near the intersection of Commerce road, the chase took an unintended turn.
Another van, this one carrying an adult and three children, was entering the intersection. Even though the trooper's cruiser had emergency lights flashing and sire blaring, the cruiser and the van collided.
"According to witness statements and what he was able to provide us, he did have his emergency lights and siren activated at the time," said Geller. "As [the trooper] came through the intersection of Commerce he collided with another vehicle."
A 9-year-old girl, 10-year-old girl and a 1-year-old boy were all taken to the hospital along with their mother. The injuries appear to be minor. The trooper suffered a head injury and State Police are still working to talk to him to learn exactly what went wrong.
Meanwhile, the original van the trooper was chasing got away.
"As far as the white van, it continues on and did not stop," Geller said.
The 1-year-old involved in the crash was safely secured in a child safety seat. The baby did not suffer any injuries, but was still taken the hospital for observation.
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Source: Lisa Pegram
