Hit-and-Run Involving Police Vehicle Update
PHILADELPHIA — A 35-year-old male is in custody following a series of collisions early Monday morning that left one person injured and a building with significant structural damage. At approximately 3:35 AM on May 4, 2026, 18th District Officers observed a blue 2016 Tesla Model X driving on the sidewalk in front of 4900 Spruce Street. After the officers positioned their patrol vehicle to block the vehicle, the driver continued westward on the sidewalk, striking the driver’s side of the police car.
The offender refused several commands to park and exit the vehicle, instead driving away northbound on 50th Street. A short time later, the Tesla collided with a white 2014 Chevrolet Impala at the intersection of 50th and Walnut Streets. The force of the impact sent the Tesla into a building at 5001 Walnut Street, causing major damage to the property. Following the crash, the male fled the scene on foot.
The operator of the Chevrolet Impala was transported to Penn-Presbyterian Medical Center by medics and is currently in stable condition. Neither of the responding officers reported injuries.
An investigation quickly led authorities to a residence on the 4900 block of Spruce Street, where the 35-year-old offender was located and arrested. He was subsequently taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the collision.
The male faces several charges, including leaving the scene of an accident, aggravated assault, and related offenses. The investigation is ongoing with Southwest Detectives.
Updates will be shared as they become available.