A tragic crash following a police pursuit in Hopewell, Virginia has left one teenager dead and two others seriously injured, according to authorities.

Hopewell Police said the incident began shortly before midnight Tuesday when officers responded to reports of a large group of juveniles arguing in the roadway near the 100 block of South 8th Avenue. Upon arrival, officers reportedly observed a black Nissan being driven recklessly and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.

Police say during the initial encounter, the driver suddenly sped away westbound on City Point Road at a high rate of speed, leading officers on a pursuit. The vehicle continued onto Mesa Drive, where it eventually lost control, left the roadway, and slammed into a tree.

Officers immediately rushed to help the three juveniles inside the vehicle. Two occupants, including the driver, were transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.

One passenger, later identified as Jaliyah Mason, sadly died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The heartbreaking incident has left family members, friends, and community members mourning the loss of the young teen as tributes and condolences continue pouring in online.

Virginia State Police assisted with the crash investigation, while the Hopewell Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit has launched an additional investigation into the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and crash.

Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Hopewell Criminal Investigations Unit or the Hopewell-Prince George Crime Solvers hotline.

Prayers are with Jaliyah Mason’s loved ones during this difficult and heartbreaking time. 🕊️