Traffic stop leads to major beltway crash

A traffic violation on the beltway near Braddock Road in Annandale this morning resulted in a major crash, the Virginia State Police reports.

A Virginia state trooper attempted a traffic stop shortly before 9 a.m. after spotting a driver heading northbound on I-495 violating the hands-free cell phone law. A check of the suspect’s vehicle also showed outstanding warrants in Fairfax and Prince William counties. 

The vehicle refused to stop and continued at a high rate of speed along the right shoulder of the beltway toward the Braddock Road exit. 

The trooper initiated a pursuit, then stopped the pursuit due to safety concerns.

When the suspect vehicle reached the access ramp to Braddock Road, it struck multiple vehicles and overturned. The driver then exited the vehicle and fled on foot. The Virginia State Police established a perimeter and quickly took the driver into custody without further incident.

Four vehicles were damaged in the crash with the suspect vehicle, resulting in minor injuries to some of the occupants. 

The suspect driver also suffered injuries in the crash and was taken to a hospital. Charges are pending.