Shoplifters crash into pizza delivery car, then catch on fire

LITTLETON, Mass. - A car chase that began in Littleton eventually ended when the suspects' car crashed into a pizza delivery vehicle and then caught on fire.

Police said it all started when an officer got a report of a person driving erratically in Littleton. When officers attempted to pull the car over, the driver kept driving onto 495 while suspects inside the car started throwing items out the window. Police said they were trying to get rid of evidence.

Officials said they later found out the four suspects inside the car were wanted for shoplifting at a Shaw's in Groton.

The pursuit ended in Acton on Route 111 when the suspects' car caught on flames after hitting a pizza delivery driver who was pulling out of his parking lot.

Everaldo Rosa, the pizza shop owner who was on his way to make a delivery, said he was blindsided by the suspects fleeing from police. He did not want to speak on camera, but told Boston 25 News he is fine, despite being shaken up.

"I don't remember nothing," said Rosa. "Okay, okay, okay I am feel nice."

Witnesses said the scene was intense.

"He took this corner, not thinking anybody would be here and there were police coming out here, three different towns," said Guy Hutchins. "I saw the flames and said 'where do I go now,' because the flames were coming down the sidewalk."

"It was reported they stole shrimp, steaks and things of that nature," said Littleton Police Chief Matthew King. "Unfortunately, [they] got into a congested area in Acton and that's when the individual pulling out of the parking space minding his business got struck."

At least two of the suspects had long criminal histories, and the driver, who was violating his probation, was likely facing a life sentence if he was arrested.

All four suspects appeared in court on Tuesday on various charges.

Cox Media Group