High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Collision and Arrest in Lubbock, Second Individual Remains At Large

The Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Unit is currently investigating a collision that occurred following a high-speed pursuit, resulting in minor injuries to one individual.

The incident unfolded on Tuesday, September 27, 2023, at approximately 8:48 am when a Lubbock police officer initiated a pursuit of a silver SUV near the intersection of 82nd Street and Avenue U. The SUV was believed to be operated by a wanted individual.

As the pursuit progressed, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) dispatched a helicopter to provide assistance. In an abundance of caution, ground officers decided to cancel their pursuit and allowed the DPS helicopter to take over tracking the silver SUV. The vehicle was identified as being driven by 30-year-old Stefan Franks.

During the course of the pursuit, Franks continued to drive at a high rate of speed. The situation took a dramatic turn when the silver SUV collided with another vehicle at the intersection of 21st Street and Canton Avenue. The impact left the SUV disabled, and both Franks and an unidentified passenger fled the scene on foot.

Shortly thereafter, law enforcement located and apprehended Stefan Franks. Meanwhile, the driver of the second vehicle involved in the collision sustained minor injuries and received treatment from EMS at the scene.

The Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Unit responded to the incident location to initiate an investigation. Unfortunately, the unidentified passenger in the SUV remains at large.

Stefan Franks was taken into custody and transported to the Lubbock County Detention Center. He is facing multiple charges, including Possession of a Controlled Substance, Evading Arrest with a Vehicle, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Failure to Stop and Render Aid, as well as an unrelated warrant. The investigation into this incident is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather information regarding the pursuit and collision.