The world of high-speed chases and daring escapes took a tragic turn in Marion County, Florida, when a woman, identified as Kendra Boon, stole a deputy’s patrol car, instigating a chase that ended with multiple fatalities.
A Routine Call Turns Deadly: The Theft
What started as a seemingly routine call for Marion County Sheriff’s deputies on February 1st quickly escalated into a dramatic scene at a Winn-Dixie parking lot. Deputies responded to reports of a woman, later identified as Kendra Boon, attempting to steal another woman’s car keys.
Bodycam footage shows the deputy arriving at the scene and speaking with Kendra Boon
Body camera footage reveals a deputy approaching Boon in the parking lot. As seen in the video, the deputy calmly requests Boon to move to the back of the patrol car. However, defying the officer’s instructions, Boon swiftly climbs into the driver’s seat through the passenger side window. Despite the deputy’s attempts to physically intervene, Boon manages to take control of the vehicle and speeds off.
A Chase with Tragic Consequences
Boon’s reckless flight from the scene marked the beginning of a high-speed chase that would have devastating consequences. With sirens blaring, law enforcement pursued the stolen patrol car as Boon recklessly sped down Highway 40.
Kendra Boon's stolen patrol car after the crash
The chase reached its tragic end when Boon collided with a pickup truck, ending the pursuit but resulting in a horrific accident. The impact claimed the lives of Boon and two individuals inside the pickup truck. A third passenger in the truck sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention.
The Aftermath and Investigation
The aftermath of the fatal crash left the community reeling. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, in a press conference addressing the incident, didn’t mince words. He called Boon’s actions “moronic”, attributing the tragic loss of life to her reckless decision. “A moron decided to steal [a] patrol vehicle which ultimately ended up resulting in us chasing them and then in a tragic accident where two individuals were killed because of that moron,” Woods said.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods speaking at the press conference
The incident prompted questions about police protocol and whether the deputy had followed proper procedure. In response to inquiries about leaving the patrol car running and unattended, Sheriff Woods maintained that departmental policies were inconsequential in this situation. He emphasized that the blame rested solely on Boon’s criminal actions, stating that departmental policies and procedures “mean nothing” when “a moron steals a police vehicle and kills two human beings.”
A History of Criminal Activity
Following the fatal crash, details of Boon’s extensive criminal history came to light, revealing a pattern of disregard for the law. Records showed that Boon had 13 felony charges, nine misdemeanors, and two convictions on her record. These charges included a prior instance of fleeing and eluding law enforcement in Marion County.
Public Outcry and Calls for Justice
The incident sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with many questioning how someone with Boon’s history of criminal behavior was able to steal a police car and cause such a tragic accident. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the deadly chase.
FAQs about the Fatal Marion County Police Chase
1. What led to the police chase?
Kendra Boon attempted to steal car keys from another woman in a Winn-Dixie parking lot. When confronted by a deputy, she stole the officer’s patrol car.
2. What was the outcome of the chase?
The chase ended when Boon collided with a pickup truck, resulting in her death and the deaths of two individuals in the truck.
3. What charges did Kendra Boon face?
While Boon died in the crash, she would have faced numerous charges related to the car theft, the high-speed chase, and the deaths of the individuals in the pickup truck.
4. What is being done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
The incident raised questions about law enforcement protocols, particularly regarding leaving patrol cars unattended with the engine running. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office may review its policies and procedures in light of this event.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of criminal behavior and the importance of responsible actions.
