Three 14-year-olds lead Morganton officers in brief pursuit in stolen truck

MORGANTON, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Three 14-year-olds were detained after leading officers on a short pursuit in a stolen vehicle, according to the Morganton Department of Public Safety.

Just before 2 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, officers saw a grey Ford F-150 driving on N. Sterling Street near Avery Avenue with no headlights. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the driver ran a red light and sped away, going faster than 70 mph, officials said.

Less than a tenth of a mile down the road, the driver lost control near 701 W. Union Street and crashed into bushes before coming to a stop against a rock wall.

Officers detained the driver and two passengers, all of whom are 14 years old. The driver was released to their guardian, and the passengers were driven back to their residences. Officials said the driver was charged with:

• Felony flee to elude arrest
• Felony larceny of a motor vehicle
• Reckless driving to endanger
• Failure to heed lights and sirens
• Fail to stop at a steady stoplight
• Speeding 70 mph in a 35 mph zone
• No operators license
• Failure to maintain lane control
• Failure to burn headlights
• Left of center
• Damage to property

After the incident, the vehicle was returned to its owner.