A routine traffic stop in Arkansas spiraled into a terrifying scene when a driver allegedly fled police at speeds topping 100 mph with four young children inside his vehicle — including a 4-month-old infant who was thrown from the car when it overturned.
According to the New York Post, newly released footage from the Arkansas State Police shows the dramatic moments from the May 24 pursuit in Camden, where authorities say 28-year-old Tyrice Fletcher refused to stop after officers attempted to pull him over for a traffic violation.
Investigators said the troopers did not realize children were inside the vehicle when the chase began.
The pursuit raced along Ouachita County Road 47 before Fletcher allegedly lost control of the vehicle. Police said the car veered off the roadway, struck a light pole, and flipped over.
Video released by authorities captures the chaotic aftermath.
As officers approached the wreckage, one trooper spotted an infant lying in the grass near the crashed vehicle, which was surrounded by smoke and downed power lines.
The officer immediately picked up the child and carried the infant to safety before placing the baby inside a patrol vehicle.
Troopers then discovered three additional children — all younger than 6 years old — still inside the overturned vehicle.
The footage shows officers helping the children out of the wreckage, wrapping some of the youngest in blankets and providing water while they waited for medical assistance.
Despite the violent crash, authorities said all four children suffered only minor injuries. They were taken by ambulance to Ouachita County Medical Center, and their mother was notified.
Police also reported finding marijuana and a defaced firearm inside the vehicle.
“As a father, I cannot fathom a parent making the decision to drive recklessly, much less flee from law enforcement, with their children in the vehicle,” Arkansas State Police Col. Mike Hagar said.
“I thank God the children were not injured,” he added.
Troop F Capt. Rick Neill also criticized Fletcher’s actions.
“The suspect’s decisions placed four innocent victims in harm’s way,” Neill said. “At any point during the pursuit, the suspect could have stopped.”
“He refused to stop. The danger created that day was the direct result of the suspect’s actions,” Neill added.
Fletcher, of El Dorado, now faces numerous charges, including felony fleeing, four counts of endangering the welfare of a minor, reckless driving, firearm offenses, drug-related charges, and multiple child-restraint violations.
