Driver dies after fleeing police and crashing into tree in Abbotsford

A driver is dead after a vehicle fleeing police crashed into a tree late Monday night in Abbotsford, according to a police statement.

Abbotsford Police said an officer attempted a traffic stop on a speeding Dodge Ram pickup along Maclure Road. According to the department, the driver failed to stop, accelerated away and lost control moments later before striking a tree. The driver was declared dead at the scene.

Police say a collision analysis team has been deployed to examine the circumstances of the crash, including vehicle speed and road conditions. The Independent Investigations Office has been notified and is expected to conduct an independent review, as required when a police interaction precedes a death.

Traffic in the area remained disrupted as investigators gathered evidence and sought witnesses. Police have not released the identity of the driver and said the investigation is ongoing.