Buffalo Woman's Car Destroyed in Police Chase, Faces Insurance Gap

Parked vehicle wrecked during suspect's attempted escape, leaving owner without coverage.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car sensor or side mirror, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a vehicle being caught in a police chase.A damaged car part serves as a stark reminder of the financial risks faced by vehicle owners when their property is caught in the crossfire of criminal activity.Buffalo Today

A Buffalo woman's car was one of several parked vehicles damaged when a suspect fleeing police crashed into them during a chase. After contacting her insurer, the woman learned her basic insurance policy did not cover the loss of her totaled vehicle, leaving her without coverage for the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential gaps in standard auto insurance policies and the financial risks faced by vehicle owners when their cars are damaged in incidents beyond their control, such as police chases or other criminal activities in their neighborhoods.

The details

Katherine Scaglione's car was parked on Prospect Avenue in Buffalo when it was destroyed after a suspect, Dejuan Williams, allegedly robbed a 7-Eleven and then stole a car. Police pursued Williams, who crashed into several parked vehicles near Massachusetts Street. Scaglione later learned her basic insurance plan did not cover the loss of her totaled car since she was not driving it at the time.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • Police approached the robbery in progress at the 7-Eleven earlier that day.

The players

Katherine Scaglione

A Buffalo woman whose parked car was destroyed during a police chase.

Dejuan Williams

The alleged armed robbery suspect who stole a car and crashed into several parked vehicles while fleeing police.

Buffalo Police Department

The law enforcement agency that pursued the suspect, leading to the crash that damaged Scaglione's vehicle.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have a basic plan, so when it came down to it I found out through the insurance company that I have no coverage with my car and I'm not in it, so I only have coverage if I'm liable.”

— Katherine Scaglione

What’s next

Scaglione plans to review her insurance coverage and consider upgrading to a policy that would protect her in similar situations where her vehicle is damaged through no fault of her own.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance for vehicle owners to carefully review their insurance policies and consider purchasing comprehensive coverage, which can protect them from losses due to events beyond their control, such as criminal activities or police chases in their neighborhoods.