Driver Seriously Injured After Pursuit Ends In Fiery Crash

CLAYTON, N.C. — A police pursuit involving a suspected stolen vehicle ended in a fiery crash early this morning (Thursday), leaving the driver seriously injured, according to Clayton police.

Officers identified a vehicle within town limits displaying dealer markings but no license plate and believed it had been taken from a dealership in the Garner area.

When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver fled, leading police on a pursuit into Wake County.

Authorities said the pursuit ended on East Garner Road when the vehicle crashed into a tree and caught fire.

Officers pulled the driver from the burning vehicle before it became fully engulfed in flames.

The driver was transported to WakeMed with serious injuries, including burns. The vehicle was destroyed.

Charges are pending.