Bodycam video shows fiery aftermath of high-speed crash in Arizona

Newly released bodycam footage shows a Yavapai County deputy rushing toward a burning vehicle in northern Arizona after a high-speed chase ended in a crash.

The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office released the video Thursday, weeks after the May 8 incident in Prescott.

Authorities said the chase began shortly before midnight when a deputy saw a vehicle traveling at triple-digit speeds with no headlights on.

When the deputy tried to pull the driver over, the driver sped away and weaved through traffic, YCSO said.

What led to the fiery crash in Prescott?

The driver eventually lost control while turning north onto Commerce Drive. The vehicle went airborne near Suncrest Drive, dropped about 100 feet down an embankment and slid into thick brush.

Moments later, it was engulfed in flames.

The driver, who has not been identified, got out of the vehicle and was arrested. Then, the deputy ran toward the burning vehicle to check whether anyone else was trapped inside.

“This incident highlights an exceptional act by the YCSO deputy to preserve life,” according to the Thursday announcement. “Even though the deputy was confident the driver was in custody and safe, he still wanted to ensure there were no other passengers in the vehicle.”
The driver is facing several charges, including:

• Unlawful flight
• Criminal speed
• Reckless driving
• Criminal damage
• Possession of marijuana for sale
• Endangerment

Watch the video below:

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