Governor Hochul speaks out following a fatal crash involving a stolen automobile in Rochester

Rochester, New York – A statement about the death of a guy who perished in a stolen car crash in Brighton has been released by Governor Hochul.

During a police pursuit in Brighton, a teenage driver’s stolen automobile collided with the vehicle belonging to 92-year-old Thomas Chase, killing him. The driver, 17, the passenger, 18, and the passenger, 19, were all hurt while inside the pilfered vehicle.

As long as there are charges in this case, the discussion over bail reform has grown. The 17-year-old motorist was found to have been detained 12 times in the previous year. He was taken into custody in Erie County a few weeks prior to the most recent collision for car theft. His parole was also revoked due to burglary.

A Hochul representative expressed their condolences to Chase’s family and mentioned Hochul’s intentions to increase auto thefts and strictly enforce bail reform.

“Our hearts are with the loved ones of Thomas Chase as they mourn this tragic loss. Governor Hochul’s top priority is to keep New Yorkers safe, which is why she has worked with the Legislature to deliver record funding to combat gun crimes and car thefts, crack down on repeat offenders, and further expand the types of cases where judges have the discretion to set bail. Our administration will continue working with law enforcement and local officials to improve the criminal justice system, combat violence, and strengthen public safety across New York.”

The defendant was in the Raise the Age system, according to the previous Erie County District Attorney, but experts claim the New York State Parole Department could have requested a petition and warrant right away. They claimed that reforms to juvenile justice may result from this.