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Tragic Police Pursuit in Newburgh Claims Life of Passenger
Newburgh, NY — April 25, 2025 — A high-speed police chase that began as a routine traffic stop turned deadly in the early hours of Friday morning, leaving one person dead and raising concerns about the dangers of police pursuits in residential areas.
According to the New York State Police, the incident unfolded around 2:30 a.m. when troopers attempted to pull over a gray Dodge Charger for a traffic violation on Interstate 84 near Exit 10. Instead of complying, the driver allegedly accelerated and fled, leading troopers on a pursuit through the streets of Newburgh.
The chase quickly escalated in speed and intensity, weaving through multiple city blocks and residential neighborhoods. Despite the use of sirens and lights, the fleeing driver reportedly ignored traffic signals and speed limits, endangering both officers and civilians.
The pursuit came to a tragic end near the intersection of Broadway and Liberty Street when the suspect’s vehicle struck a curb and crashed into a utility pole. Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes to find the car heavily damaged and its occupants trapped inside.
The driver, identified only as a 23-year-old male from Poughkeepsie, was transported to St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in police custody. His passenger, a 21-year-old female from Newburgh, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity is being withheld pending family notification.
Police recovered what they described as a small quantity of narcotics and paraphernalia from the vehicle, although it remains unclear whether the items played a role in the initial traffic stop or subsequent flight. The New York State Police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and crash.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life in this tragic incident,” said Captain Joseph Morales of the New York State Police. “Our thoughts are with the family of the victim. We are conducting a thorough review of the pursuit to ensure all protocols were followed.”
Residents in the area were shaken by the event. “I woke up to the sound of sirens and a loud crash,” said Marsha Tillman, who lives two blocks from the crash site. “It’s heartbreaking. This is a quiet neighborhood, and now someone’s daughter is gone.”
The crash has reignited debate over the policies and procedures surrounding high-speed pursuits. While police say such chases are necessary to prevent crime and ensure public safety, critics argue that they often result in unnecessary injuries or fatalities—particularly to innocent bystanders or passengers.
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has joined the investigation and will review potential criminal charges against the driver, including vehicular manslaughter, fleeing law enforcement, and drug possession.
As of Friday afternoon, Broadway between Liberty and Grand Streets remained closed as cleanup crews worked to remove debris and repair damage to the utility infrastructure. The State Police have urged anyone who witnessed the chase or crash to come forward with information or video footage that could aid the investigation.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with fleeing from law enforcement—and the irreversible consequences that can follow a single reckless decision.
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