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Driver killed after CHP pursuit ends in Lake Isabella crash
A driver was killed Saturday evening after a California Highway Patrol pursuit in the Kern River Valley ended when a vehicle plunged into Lake Isabella, according to CHP Bakersfield.
CHP said the incident began at approximately 6:16 p.m. May 23 when an officer working in the Kern Valley area observed a traffic violation involving a white 2018 Land Rover near Scodie Avenue and Durwood Street. The driver failed to yield, prompting a pursuit onto southbound Sierra Way.
According to CHP, the Land Rover approached a curve near Stine Cove at a high rate of speed and failed to negotiate the turn at about 6:21 p.m. The vehicle went airborne over a dirt embankment and entered Lake Isabella, becoming fully submerged.
Emergency crews responded and launched a search and rescue operation. The vehicle was recovered from the lake at approximately 2:51 a.m. Sunday, May 24. CHP said the sole occupant and driver was found inside and had died from fatal injuries.
Authorities said it remains unknown whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
Anyone with information is asked to contact CHP Bakersfield at 661-396-6600.
