Watch CBS News

Man Dies In Crash After Leading Chase In Stolen Car

LAGUNA BEACH (CBS) — Authorities say that a man fleeing from a California Highway Patrol at more than 100 mph Monday died when the stolen vehicle he was driving crashed into a tree.

The officer began chasing the 2008 Scion xB after trying to stop it at about 2:15 a.m. on the southbound San Diego (405) Freeway at Jamboree Road in Irvine, according to the CHP.

The chase went onto the southbound SR133 and continued for several miles at speeds as high as 100 mph.

The Scion crashed near Forest Avenue, where the driver was pronounced dead.

Late Monday, the deceased was identified as Benjamin Davis of Huntingon Beach. He turned 31 on March 19.

The Scion had been reported stolen, according to the CHP.

Traffic in the area was backed up for miles later in the morning as authorities investigated the crash.

(©2011 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.