A 19-year-old suspected car thief plunged to his death from the George Washington Bridge while trying to flee from police officers on Tuesday evening.
According to authorities, the incident began when New York State Police attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation in the Bronx. The driver, identified as 19-year-old Jose Polanco Jr., refused to stop and led police on a high-speed chase across the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge and onto the Cross Bronx Expressway.
Polanco eventually lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a barrier near the George Washington Bridge. He then fled from the car on foot and attempted to climb over the bridge’s safety railing.
Despite efforts by police to convince him to come down, Polanco jumped off the bridge and fell approximately 212 feet onto the rocks along the Hudson River shore. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police later discovered that Polanco had stolen the vehicle he was driving, which had been reported missing in New Jersey. They also found that he had an active warrant for his arrest for grand larceny.
The incident caused significant traffic delays on both sides of the George Washington Bridge as authorities investigated the scene and cleared debris. The bridge was eventually reopened to traffic late Tuesday night.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of high-speed chases and reckless behavior, especially for young individuals like Polanco. It also serves as a reminder for drivers to always obey traffic laws and avoid engaging in illegal activities that can potentially put themselves and others at risk.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and gather more information about Polanco’s actions leading up to his death. Anyone with information is urged to contact New York State Police or local law enforcement agencies.
