WORCESTER, MA — A Worcester man is facing multiple drug and driving charges after leading police said he led officers on a high-speed pursuit early Wednesday morning before crashing and attempting to flee on foot.
Worcester police said an officer observed a vehicle speeding on Main Street at about 2:20 a.m. on Wednesday. The officer activated emergency lights and attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver accelerated, reaching speeds of about 70 mph, police said.
The vehicle continued onto Hammond Street, where it crashed into a tree and then struck a bridge at the bottom of a hill, according to police.
The driver then fled on foot and attempted to jump a fence before officers caught and detained him, police said.
The operator was identified as Luis Saldana, 42, of Worcester.
During the investigation, officers recovered a bag containing suspected crack cocaine, according to police. Saldana was taken to a hospital for treatment following the crash.
Police said officers later found live ammunition on the driver's side floorboard next to an open fanny pack. Investigators reported finding fentanyl inside the bag.
Saldana is charged with possession of a Class B substance, trafficking fentanyl of more than 10 grams and possession of ammunition without a Firearms Identification Card, along with several motor vehicle-related offenses.
Police said Saldana did not have a license to carry firearms or a Firearms Identification Card. His driver's license was also suspended at the time of the incident.
The charges have not yet been adjudicated and Saldana is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
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