Two 14-year-olds were injured Thursday night after a stolen Kia Sportage they were riding in crashed into a marked police cruiser in Niagara Falls, according to authorities.
How the Crash Happened
Police say officers spotted the SUV, which had reportedly been hotwired, traveling on Niagara Street near Portage Road around 9 p.m. The driver lost control of the vehicle near Osborne Court, striking a telephone pole before the SUV flipped and collided head-on with a marked patrol car.
Injuries Reported
The passenger, a 14-year-old girl, was ejected during the crash and transported to Oishei Children’s Hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. The driver, also 14, was taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. The officer inside the patrol vehicle was not seriously injured.
Investigation Underway
The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles, and portions of the street were closed while crews cleared debris and worked the scene. Police say they are continuing to investigate how the teens came to be driving the stolen vehicle, and charges are expected to follow. Given the ages of those involved, any legal proceedings would be handled through the juvenile justice system.
Part of a Broader Trend
Authorities note the incident reflects a continuing pattern of vehicle thefts involving juveniles in the area, a trend that has drawn concern from local law enforcement working to address underage auto theft.