STOUGHTON, Mass. — A 26-year-old Brockton man is facing multiple charges after a deadly crash in Stoughton on Saturday that followed a multi-town police pursuit, according to the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Police Pursuit Ends in Tragic Collision
Authorities said that around 10:40 a.m., Brockton police officers attempted to stop a pickup truck driven by Jason Ortiz, though officials have not specified what prompted the traffic stop.
Instead of stopping, Ortiz sped away, leading officers on a chase into neighboring Stoughton, where he allegedly began driving erratically. Moments later, his pickup truck collided with a sedan, causing devastating damage.
One Dead, One Injured
The driver of the sedan, identified as John G. Smith, 84, was pronounced dead at the scene. A 78-year-old Stoughton woman, who was a passenger in the sedan, was hospitalized with serious injuries.
Following the crash, Ortiz fled on foot but was captured shortly after with assistance from K9 units and the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing.
Brockton police also confirmed that a second man in Ortiz’s truck fled the scene but was later taken into custody. However, the district attorney’s office stated that only Ortiz faces charges at this time.
Multiple Charges Filed
Ortiz is charged with:
- Motor vehicle homicide
- Leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death
- Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury
- Leaving the scene of an accident with property damage
- Failing to stop for police
He is expected to be arraigned Monday in Stoughton District Court.
Road Closure and Ongoing Investigation
The crash caused major traffic disruptions, with the roadway near the scene closed for several hours as investigators worked to document evidence and clear debris. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes.
The Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office and Massachusetts State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and fatal collision. Stay tuned to HonkNews.com for updates on this developing case.