Harris County chase ends in crash: 3 teens dead, 3 injured

HOUSTON - Three teenagers are dead, and three others were injured after a police chase ended in Spring. It happened on Rolling Terrace at Sorrel Ridge Drive in Northwest Harris County.

Investigators say the boys, who are just 14 and 15-years-old, sped off in a stolen SUV when a deputy tried to pull them over.

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In just a 45-second chase, the boys reached 90 miles an hour and smashed into a tree.

Residents say even experienced drivers have had trouble with this turn for years. Just after midnight, a boy who wasn't even old enough to drive lost control in the curve and died, taking two of his friends with him.

"It sounded like a big explosion almost," says Jimmy, a witness to the incident. 

"Before I could even get to the door, there were three police officers already out of their cars and guns drawn," explains resident Simon Pizzini.

"I'm just sorry this happened. I mean, it's sad," Jimmy adds.

"Being a mom, the last thing you want to hear is that on New Year's Day you lost somebody that was your child," says another resident, Diana.

"They were going really fast apparently, like fast, fast. That tree trunk was up to the windshield, crushed into the car. It's very disturbing to see something like that happen. This curve is very dangerous," Jimmy said.

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Residents say at least one boy is their neighbor and lives just a couple blocks away.

"My heart is really going out to these parents. I couldn't even begin to fathom or imagine something like this. They're just beginning to live. I'm old. I've been here over half a century, and I've seen a lot, and I've lived a lot. Imagine a little child who's just begun. Not married, no kids. Mom and dad didn't even get to see them graduate," says Diana while choking back tears.

"It's just a shame. I'm a church guy, and that's what I do, work with children," Pizzini said.

"I'm surprised in a big town like this there's nothing better to do than steal a car. It's heart-wrenching. Prayers for the parents and the kids. I hope the ones that did survive. I hope this is a wake-up call for them," Diana said.

Deputies say none of the boys were wearing seatbelts. Masks, screwdrivers, and hammers were found in the vehicle. Investigators say they're not sure what the teens were doing before the deputy tried to pull them over.

Residents say as soon as the deputies realized the boys were injured, they immediately began administering CPR and saying things to comfort the teens. 

The three boys who survived are said to be in stable condition and are expected to survive.