NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A Virginia police officer from Newport News died Thursday night after being dragged during a traffic stop, according to a press release from the department.
The officer conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle around 6:47 p.m. in the 1400 block of 16th Street. Police did not provide the reason for the detention.
During the encounter, the driver accelerated his vehicle, dragging the officer, according to the release. The driver tried to flee but crashed in the area of 16th Street and Walnut Avenue, the release said.
The officer suffered multiple injuries and was taken to a local hospital where she died, WAVY reported.
The driver has not been identified, but police said he is in custody, according to 13News.
Law enforcement agencies across Virginia, and local and state officials have been sending messages of condolences to the Newport News Police Department.
A news conference is scheduled for later Friday morning at police headquarters. Police said additional information will be provided at that time.
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UPDATE: Officer Katie Thyne killed after being dragged by vehicle
