A driver of a vehicle who led law enforcement officers on a vehicle pursuit in Effingham County has died after a single vehicle accident. The driver has been identified as Dean Troy Stevens, 51, of Fairfax. S.C.

At approximately 11 p.m., a Springfield Police Officer attempted a traffic stop on Laurel Street in Springfield. After Stevens, driving  a Chevrolet truck, failed to yield for the officer, Effingham County Sheriff’s Deputies took over the low speed pursuit which went through Springfield. Initial reports indicate that the deputy was attempting to stop the vehicle when Stevens apparently accelerated and crossed over railroad tracks on Third Street and struck an embankment. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle also struck a patrol car. 

Stevens was taken to Effingham Hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later. 

Initial results from an autopsy indicate Stevens died of multiple injuries sustained in the accident.  The crash is being investigated by the Georgia State Patrol. 

Further information will be released as it becomes available.