PLAINFIELD — A driver fleeing from Avon Police officers crashed in Plainfield Wednesday, claiming the life of a baby and injuring a toddler.
According to the Plainfield Police Department, which is handling the investigation, Avon Police attempted to stop a man who was driving a stolen car in the area of US 40 and Ronald Reagan Parkway.
Police said the driver failed to stop, leading to a police chase. At some point, police said the suspect vehicle collided with another motorist. Upon impact, the struck vehicle caught fire.
Police say officers had to cut a 3-year-old boy out of the burning vehicle. Two police officers were rescued trying to rescue the child.
As a result of the crash, police said one person died and two occupants of the struck vehicle were injured. The involved Avon officers also received injuries, they said.
"My fiancé was driving safely. He was doing everything. We were in some of the best moments of our lives and in an instant, that all changed because someone else was out there driving crazy," Jack Vawter told WRTV.
WRTV learned from the family that Iris, a 2-month-old baby died and her 3-year-old brother, Ares, was critically injured.
Their mother, Vawter, expressed her anguish, "I'm just frustrated knowing that there's someone out there who has changed my family in a matter of seconds."
Police announced a 25-year-old suspect is in custody. Jail records show he is facing multiple charges.
WRTV does not name suspects until they are formally charged.
