Driver Flees In Stolen Vehicle, Ends Up In Canal

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Flagler Beach, FL - Two people are charged with Grand Theft of a Motor Vehicle after the stolen Toyota Corolla they were traveling in crashed into a canal in Flagler Beach yesterday (June 15) afternoon. Flagler County Sheriff's deputies say 30-year-old Alexander O'Connor is also charged Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding, Driving with a Suspended License, and Resisting Arrest. His passenger is identified as 22-year-old Lynnann Major.

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FCSO was alerted by the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office that the car was fleeing from them towards Flagler County where deputies spotted the car around 12:45 p.m., headed south on A1A. They were behind the car when O'Connor began to speed and pass cars, almost hitting another vehicle near Camino Del Mar. Deputies say O'Connor continued driving recklessly and running red lights.  Because of the dangers to the community, FCSO did not continue the pursuit.

A short time later, Florida Highway Patrol engaged in the pursuit of the car while Flagler County's Fire Flight emergency helicopter tracked the situation from the sky. The car turned west onto S.R. 100, then north on Lambert Avenue when the vehicle crashed, coming to rest in the Matanzas River. O'Connor and Major swam to shore where FHP was waiting to arrest them.

“This duo is lucky to be alive after risking their lives and the lives of those on the roadways by driving so recklessly but then they lost control and crashed the car into the canal,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “You should never flee from law enforcement as it only adds additional charges. All of the agencies involved worked together to get these two off the streets. Our Dive Team did a great job assisting in the recovery of the stolen vehicle from the water.”

O'Connor's bond was set at $19,500 and he has already bonded out.  Major remains at the Flagler County Jail being held on a $2,500 bond. Both have a history with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office.

Flagler Beach, stolen vehicle