VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A man has been charged following a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of Independence Boulevard and Holland Road in Virginia Beach on Sunday morning, according to Virginia State Police.
At approximately 12:29 a.m. on March 8, an officer noticed a Ram 1500 truck evading Virginia Beach police. The Ram accelerated after passing the trooper’s vehicle. The suspect then exited Interstate 264 via Independence Boulevard and continued to accelerate. Officers attempted a traffic stop at the intersection of Independence Avenue and South Plaza Trail, but the suspect sped away.
The suspect ran a red light at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Holland Road, crashing into a red Mazda sedan and a Honda Accord.
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Courtesy: Virginia State Police
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Courtesy: Virginia State Police
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Courtesy: Virginia State Police
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Courtesy: Virginia State Police
The suspect has been identified as New Mexico resident Leon A. Pena. After the accident, he was taken to a local hospital for treatment. He now faces charges including driving under the influence and eluding.
The driver of the Mazda, Norfolk resident Naomi Kiesow, was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Honda, Philadelphia resident Gavin Rodriguez, suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital.
According to a post from the department Facebookthe intersection was closed due to the accident. The department advises the community to avoid the area and use alternative routes at this time.
It’s unclear when the intersection will reopen.
The accident remains under investigation.
Keep checking WAVY.com for updates.
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