TEXARKANA, Texas - A 17-year-old girl was arrested after leading Texarkana police on a brief pursuit in a stolen vehicle that ended in a fiery crash Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Texarkana Texas Police Department, officers spotted a 2025 Hyundai that had been reported stolen out of Texarkana, Arkansas, on June 3.
Officer Joe Rochelle recognized the vehicle near West 8th Street and Whitaker Street and, along with Officer Matthew Lindsey, attempted a traffic stop in the 600 block of South Lake Drive.
Police said the driver initially pulled over but then suddenly accelerated away, leading officers on a pursuit.
The chase ended moments later when the driver attempted to turn from South Lake Drive onto Buchanan Road at a high rate of speed. Authorities said the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a utility pole.
The vehicle immediately caught fire following the collision.
Both the driver, identified as 17-year-old London Richardson, and her 15-year-old passenger were able to escape the burning vehicle. Police said both suffered only minor injuries.
During the investigation, officers discovered marijuana inside the stolen vehicle.
Richardson was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance before being booked into the Bi-State Jail.
Investigators also learned Richardson had an outstanding felony warrant for Theft of a Firearm.
She was charged with:
- Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle
- Evading Arrest with a Vehicle
- Possession of Marijuana
- Theft of a Firearm (outstanding warrant)
The 15-year-old passenger was not arrested.
The Texarkana Texas Police Department commended Officers Rochelle and Lindsey for their actions during the incident and for helping bring the pursuit to a safe conclusion.
