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A suspect fleeing police in Florida crashed into a pregnant woman’s car, killing her and her mother.
PEOPLE reports that 23-year-old Neoni Copeland crashed his speeding Kia Stinger into a blue Toyota Corolla. The incident occurred in Boynton Beach on July 30 around 8 p.m. local time.
Police informed PEOPLE that the crash sent pregnant Jenice Woods, 27, and her mother, Marcia Pochette, 57, to the hospital, where they died.
According to CBS 12 News, Jenice Woods was in her blue Toyota when Neoni Copeland crashed into her. The outlet revealed that Copeland evaded a West Palm Beach police chase before slamming into Jenice Woods and her mother. Neoni reportedly fled on foot after the collision, but police arrested him after a 911 call described a man matching his description.
Junel Pochette, Marcia’s husband and Jenice’s father told CBS 12 News that his daughter was two months pregnant when she died.
“Two and a half lives were taken away from me: my daughter, my wife, my future grandchild. We were looking forward to a new grand baby.”
Junel Pochette also pointed out that drivers frequently cause accidents in Boynton Beach.
“Accidents happen out there very frequently. I wish this is something they take into consideration. I dont want to see another life taken that way,” Junel said.
Police Chief Frank Adderly placed the involved officers on paid administrative leave after the BBPD crash investigation concluded.
“While there are any questions and few answers at this time, we need to let the facts lead us to the outcome of the investigation. We are cooperating with the Boynton Beach Police Department and are committed to full transparency,” Adderly said.
WFLX and WPTV report that Neoni Copeland faces charges for resisting arrest and fleeing the scene of a fatal crash.
Copeland currently remains in Palm Beach County jail without bail, and it’s unclear if he has legal representation.
