Fort Wayne, IN – A deadly early-morning police pursuit has shut down a major roadway in Fort Wayne today after a fleeing driver allegedly struck and killed a pedestrian before abandoning a vehicle and running from officers.
According to the Fort Wayne Police Department, the incident began around 6:02 a.m. near Lawton Place and Griswold Drive, when an officer attempted to stop a vehicle that reportedly refused to pull over. The driver allegedly fled the area, circling nearby streets for several minutes.
Police say that around 6:08 a.m., the fleeing vehicle—traveling eastbound on East Fourth Street—attempted to turn north onto Spy Run Avenue, where it struck an adult male pedestrian. The driver then allegedly continued driving, side-swiping another vehicle just north of the intersection before eventually stopping in the 1400 block of Spy Run Avenue.
Officials say the adult male driver, the sole occupant, fled on foot and was seen throwing a handgun into nearby grass. Multiple 911 callers helped officers track the suspect, who was later found hiding in the backyard of a home in the same block. The firearm was recovered.
The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. The woman driving the vehicle that was side-swiped was not injured. Police say the fleeing suspect was also not injured.
Spy Run Avenue between East Superior Street and East Fourth Street remains closed as investigators process the scene and interview witnesses.
The Allen County Coroner’s Office will release the victim’s identity and official cause of death. Police say the suspect’s identity and any potential charges will be released after interviews conclude.
There is nothing further at this time.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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