Police pursuit ends in double fatal crash in Colchester

COLCHESTER — The Vermont State Police is investigating a double-fatal crash that occurred Friday evening after a police pursuit in Colchester.

The incident happened around 7:35 p.m. near 1172 East Lakeshore Dr. when a vehicle fleeing from law enforcement overturned, resulting in the deaths of two men and injuries to three others, who were later taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center.

The chase began in Burlington after a reported theft of a 2024 Ford Expedition by five men, one of whom allegedly displayed a firearm.

Burlington police initiated the pursuit, which was discontinued and then picked up by Colchester officers when the vehicle entered their jurisdiction.

The Colchester Police Department has deferred the investigation to the State Police, as per protocol.

Preliminary findings suggest the vehicle nearly hit a Colchester police cruiser before crashing.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased, pending autopsies and further investigation.

The Chittenden County State’s Attorney’s Office has been informed of the incident.

Both Burlington and Colchester police will review the pursuit internally, while Burlington police also investigate the initial vehicle theft and reported assault.

East Lakeshore Drive was closed until early Saturday morning.

Local rescue and fire departments, along with the State Police Crash Reconstruction Team, provided assistance at the scene.