COLUMBUS, Ohio – Raeshawa Pippen, a 20-year-old woman from Columbus, led police on a short chase, ultimately crashing into a COTA bus stop with a 2-year-old child in the car.

The Chase and Crash

The incident unfolded near the intersection of Cleveland and 4th Avenues, where Pippen backed into a deputy’s cruiser at a gas station while he was impounding another vehicle. This prompted a pursuit down Cleveland Avenue, reaching speeds of up to 90 mph. Pippen collided with a bus stop and a utility pole, captured on the deputy’s dash cam and body cam.

Injuries and Charges

Five individuals, including an infant, were in the car during the chase. The infant was hospitalized as a precaution, while the others sustained minor injuries and were also taken to hospitals. Deputies discovered a gun inside the vehicle. Pippen faces charges of felony fleeing and child endangerment, with additional charges pending.

Sheriff’s Response

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the pursuit would not have occurred had the deputy been aware of the child’s presence in the vehicle. Additionally, none of the occupants possessed a valid driver’s license, and the car’s owner was not driving. Fortunately, the child was properly secured in a car seat.

Safety Reminders

The incident underscores the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the chase and subsequent crash, emphasizing the need for responsible driving practices to ensure the safety of all road users, especially children.

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