ELLICOTT CITY, Md. – A man was killed Saturday morning after crashing into a utility pole in Ellicott City shortly after fleeing from an attempted traffic stop, police said.
The crash happened just before 9:40 a.m. when an officer in an unmarked Howard County police vehicle tried to stop a 2013 Honda Accord near Route 29 and Rogers Avenue.
Investigators said the driver took off, and the officer did not pursue, turning off emergency lights before losing sight of the car.
Key Points
- A 2013 Honda Accord fled a traffic stop attempt on Route 29 in Ellicott City.
- The car struck a utility pole on Rogers Avenue, killing the driver.
- Police say no pursuit was initiated after the driver fled.
Officer disengaged after driver fled
According to preliminary findings, the officer attempted a routine stop before the Honda accelerated away. Police said the officer deactivated lights and siren and did not follow. Moments later, the vehicle continued south on Rogers Avenue past Faber Way, where it left the roadway and struck a utility pole.
The driver, identified only as an adult male, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
Road closed for six hours during investigation
Rogers Avenue remained shut down between Faber Way and nearby intersections for approximately six hours as crash reconstruction teams and utility crews worked at the site.
Authorities said the investigation remains active as detectives review body camera footage, traffic camera data, and witness statements to determine what led to the crash.
Police stress safety during traffic encounters
Howard County police reiterated that officers are trained to weigh public safety before engaging in or continuing vehicle pursuits. Officials noted that the department’s pursuit policy requires immediate termination if the risks to public safety outweigh the need for apprehension.
The identity of the deceased driver will be released pending family notification, police said.
