A driver killed himself after a fiery crash that ended a police pursuit, in Costa Mesa

Garden Grove police officers attempted to stop a brown pickup truck in the area of Harbor Blvd. and Westminster Ave. on Thursday, Nov. 16.

The truck initially appeared to pull over before quickly accelerating, initiating a pursuit, which traveled through multiple cities. During this time, officers observed the driver in possession of a firearm.

The pursuit was discontinued when the suspect’s driving became reckless and posed a danger to public safety. However, a police helicopter continued monitoring the suspect vehicle and observed it involved in a traffic collision at the intersection of Victoria St. and Placentia Ave., in the City of Costa Mesa.

Responding officers found the suspect vehicle blocked by the car it collided with and heard gun shots. At this time, the vehicle remained in drive, causing the tires to deteriorate and eventually sparked a fire, that engulfed the entire car.

Once Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue extinguished the fire. The male suspect driver was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A firearm was also located in the vehicle.

The suspect has not yet been identified. This investigation is ongoing. Anyone who witnessed or has information regarding the incident is asked to contact Det. Estlow at 714-741-5830.