Teen Driver Charged in Crash That Injured 2 Raleigh Officers

Officers were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the incident, police say.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:40pm

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A 17-year-old driver has been charged with multiple offenses after a crash in Raleigh, North Carolina that injured two police officers. The officers were involved in a chase with the teen's vehicle before the collision occurred at an intersection, where the police cruiser struck the teen's Infiniti sedan. Both officers and the teen driver were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about police pursuit policies, officer safety protocols, and accountability for both law enforcement and civilian drivers in high-risk traffic situations. Raleigh's police chief has vowed a thorough internal review of the crash.

The details

According to Raleigh police, the officers were pursuing the Infiniti sedan after the driver refused to stop for a traffic violation. The chase led to an intersection where the police cruiser struck the Infiniti, which was reportedly traveling at high speed with its headlights off. Evidence indicates the officers ran a stop sign before the collision.

  • The crash occurred around 8:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • The initial traffic stop attempt happened about a half-mile from the crash scene, near the intersection of New Bern Avenue and North Raleigh Boulevard.

The players

Raleigh Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the crash and pursuing internal disciplinary action.

17-year-old driver

The teen driver of the Infiniti sedan who has been charged with multiple offenses related to the crash.

Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce

The head of the Raleigh Police Department who issued a statement addressing the incident and promising a thorough review.

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What they’re saying

“'As Chief of Police, I am aware of the recent vehicle crash involving members of my department and I am thankful no life-threatening injuries were sustained. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our officers and everyone in our community.'”

— Rico Boyce, Raleigh Police Chief

What’s next

An internal review by the Raleigh Police Department is underway to fully assess the circumstances of the crash. The department says appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for strict adherence to police safety protocols, even during high-pressure situations. It also raises broader questions about the risks and policies governing police pursuits in urban areas.