Augusta, GA – A man is in the hospital following a police chase that ended in a crash in Augusta on Thursday afternoon. According to officials with the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the incident began around 4:41 p.m. when a trooper observed a white Dodge Avenger traveling at 91 mph in a 45 mph speed zone on Hephzibah McBean Road.

The trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver of the vehicle immediately sped away, triggering a high-speed pursuit. As the driver continued to flee, officials reported that he disregarded the safety of the public, driving at dangerous speeds and through traffic.

The situation escalated further when the trooper attempted a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver to stop the vehicle. However, the driver suddenly slammed on the brakes, causing the trooper to drive alongside the vehicle. The driver then rammed the patrol car on the passenger side, causing the trooper to lose control temporarily.

The force of the collision caused the driver to lose control of his vehicle, which then veered off the road, traveling through a fence and a ditch before striking a truck parked in a private driveway.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responded to the scene and transported the driver to the hospital. He is currently listed in serious condition. The GSP has not released the identity of the driver, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

This high-speed chase highlights the risks faced by law enforcement officers during such encounters and the potential dangers to the public posed by individuals fleeing from police. Authorities are continuing to gather information and will provide updates as necessary.