Pittsburg Couple Struck by Suspect Fleeing CHP Officers, One Dies

PITTSBURG, Calif. – A 22-year-old woman died, and her fiancé was critically injured after a stolen car crashed into their SUV during a police pursuit early Sunday morning. The tragic incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. when Vilamalia Polina Tuipulotu and Beaux Tagaloa were returning home from a family gathering.

The couple’s vehicle was struck by an Infiniti that was being pursued by California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers after allegedly exceeding 100 mph on Highway 4. The police chase began when the suspect exited the highway onto Railroad Avenue, ran a red light, and collided with the couple’s vehicle near East Leland Road and Gladstone Drive.

Vilamalia Polina Tuipulotu was fatally injured in the crash, while her fiancé, Beaux Tagaloa, a former Cal football player and current football coach at Diablo Valley College, sustained severe injuries and is currently in critical condition at a local hospital.

“She was a radiant soul that touched everyone’s hearts,” said Tuipulotu’s sister, Emily Tuipulotu. “She had a welcoming spirit. She was known for her beautiful smile.”

Police say the suspect in the stolen vehicle was being pursued after officers spotted the driver speeding. The chase, which lasted approximately one minute, ended with the collision that left Tuipulotu dead and Tagaloa fighting for his life.

KTVU legal analyst Michael Cardoza addressed the incident, stating, “The law should stand on the side of the innocent bystanders.” He emphasized the importance of holding the driver of the stolen vehicle accountable for the crash, rather than blaming law enforcement for their pursuit.

Pittsburg Mayor Jelani Killings expressed his condolences in a statement, saying, “My heart and prayers go out to the families impacted by this tragic incident. My deepest condolences for their loss. This is an unfortunate and difficult situation for our community to process.”

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities reviewing details to determine the sequence of events that led to this tragedy. Friends and family continue to gather in support of the victims, mourning the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and friend.