Anaheim, California — A devastating crash has left the community in shock after a high-speed police pursuit ended in tragedy on the northbound 5 Freeway early Wednesday morning. The incident resulted in the loss of three lives, while two other individuals sustained critical injuries, highlighting the grave risks involved in fleeing from law enforcement.

The incident began around 2:45 a.m. when Anaheim Police officers were dispatched to reports of suspicious activity near Malboro Avenue, close to Euclid Street and La Palma Avenue. Upon arrival, officers observed several individuals actively removing parts from a parked vehicle. Recognizing the situation as an apparent burglary, officers approached the scene in an attempt to intervene and prevent further criminal activity.

Instead of complying with police commands, the suspects entered a black sedan and fled at an alarmingly high speed. The vehicle accelerated through city streets, leading officers on a brief but intense pursuit. Police made efforts to maintain a safe distance while tracking the vehicle’s path, prioritizing public safety in the process.

At approximately 3:00 a.m., the situation took a tragic turn near Brookhurst Street. Authorities reported that the driver of the fleeing vehicle lost control while navigating the freeway. The car veered off the roadway and collided forcefully with roadside barriers, resulting in catastrophic damage. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene.

First responders arrived to find a harrowing scene. Three individuals inside the vehicle were pronounced deceased at the site of the crash due to the severity of the impact. Two others were found alive but critically injured and were swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly disclosed.

Anaheim Police Department’s traffic and homicide divisions are now leading a joint investigation into the incident. Officials are working to determine all contributing factors, including vehicle speed, road conditions, and whether any substances may have been involved. Investigators are also reviewing video footage and interviewing witnesses to establish a clear timeline of events.

Local leaders and residents have expressed their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. Many community members are using the incident as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with high-speed pursuits and the consequences of fleeing from law enforcement.

The Anaheim community remains focused on healing as authorities continue their work, seeking both answers and ways to prevent similar tragedies in the future.