Lancaster, PA – A 26-year-old Elizabeth Township man accused of causing a violent crash that seriously injured two teenage girls while fleeing police has waived his preliminary hearing, sending the case to county court for prosecution.
Brandon Earnest Hooper, of the 300 block of Long Lane, appeared before Judge Joseph Stauffer on August 8 and waived his right to a hearing on a list of felony and misdemeanor charges, including aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, fleeing police, and obstructing the administration of law.
The crash occurred around 2:30 a.m. on May 18 after officers from Lititz Borough Police attempted to stop Hooper for speeding and erratic driving on South Broad Street. As officers informed dispatch of the traffic stop, Hooper allegedly sped off, running a red light and fleeing at high speed. Police halted the pursuit due to safety concerns.
Moments later, officers were dispatched to a crash at the intersection of Lexington Road and Route 501, where they discovered Hooper had crossed into oncoming traffic and slammed head-on into another vehicle carrying two teenage victims, ages 17 and 18. The impact caused the vehicle to roll multiple times.
The 17-year-old passenger sustained a broken femur requiring surgery and lung injuries, while the 18-year-old suffered a concussion and internal injuries to her digestive system, authorities said. Surveillance video from a nearby residence captured the collision.
Hooper reportedly told officers he fled because he was scared. He showed signs of impairment, including slurred speech and unsteady balance, and admitted to drinking before driving. After being taken into custody, Hooper refused to submit to a breath test or allow a court-authorized blood draw to determine his alcohol content.
Hooper was charged with multiple felony counts, including aggravated assault, DUI-related offenses, and numerous traffic violations. He is currently free after posting $225,000 bail and remains under supervision with alcohol monitoring.
Assistant District Attorney Kyle Linardo is prosecuting the case. The charges were filed by Lititz Borough Police Officer Tyler Weinoldt.
