JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Action News is learning new information about the carjacking that turned into a police chase that landed one teen behind bars and an innocent woman in the hospital.
Police say 15-year-old Derrick Thomas stole a car, then shot at police when they chased him. A local woman, Nafissah Exantus, became a part of the drama. An officer going after the teen suspect crashed into her SUV instead.
It all started after a wrecked police car smashed into the back of the SUV by her gas tank. The officer was on his way to a manhunt for Thomas.
This is just the latest in a string of incidents involving Jacksonville Sheriff's Officers.
On Tuesday, the police union was weighing in. "I think the police officers responded appropriately and acted in the most professional manner they could. It's unfortunate this traffic crash occurred," said Paul Daragjati, a union representative.
When the officer ran into the woman, police say the officer saw dust kick up in the roadway, and couldn't brake fast enough to get around the SUV. Now it's up to investigators with the Florida Highway Patrol to figure out how fast the police officer was going and whether he'll face any charges.
Daragjati says he doesn't think the officers did anything wrong.
"When you have these emergency situations, unfortunately things like this happen. It's part of police work," said Daragjati.
