ABINGTON, Mass. — A 17-year-old driver was killed and four passengers were injured when a stolen SUV crashed into a tree on Washington Street Wednesday morning, authorities said.
At approximately 7:47 a.m., Abington Police attempted to stop a Hyundai Tucson reported stolen. The vehicle subsequently left the roadway and collided with a tree near 877 Washington St., according to the Plymouth County District Attorney's office.
Five individuals were in the SUV at the time of the crash. A 14-year-old female passenger was ejected from the vehicle. Three other occupants—a male and two females—sustained life-threatening injuries and were transported to local hospitals before being transferred to facilities in Boston for further treatment.
The driver, who was trapped in the wreckage, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Abington Police Chief John Bonney stated, “The operator was driving, in possession of a stolen motor vehicle.” He confirmed he met with the driver's family following the incident.
Surveillance footage indicated that the SUV ran a red light shortly before the crash, witnesses reported it was traveling at a high speed.
The officer involved in the pursuit has been placed on paid administrative leave as part of department policy.
Washington Street was closed between Central Street and Lincoln Boulevard during the emergency response and scene clearance.
The Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit is assisting Abington Police with the ongoing investigation.