Fugitive Plunges Off James River Bridge During Police Pursuit: Authorities

A 29-year-old fugitive leapt off the James River Bridge after a collision, but was ultimately rescued by a vessel in the river and arrested, Virginia State Police said.

Cecilia Levine

01/22/2024 1:12 p.m.

Kelly Golden Jr., 29, of Suffolk, was spotted by a police officer driving recklessly in a black sedan on the bridge and struck another vehicle — causing a four-car crash — around 8:45 a.m. Monday, Jan. 22 in Newport News, according to state police.

Golden, who had been wanted for a felony probation violation, fled the scene on foot.

As he approached the draw of the bridge, he saw state police in the lane and leapt off the south side of the bridge into the James River to avoid being arrested, VSP said.

Golden drifted north in the water until a civilian vessel was able to respond and pull him to safety. Golden was taken to Riverside Regional Hospital.

State Police is investigating the four-vehicle crash involving Golden's vehicle. Newport News Police are standing by at the hospital to serve/arrest Golden upon release.

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