In a scene straight out of a Hollywood action movie, a driver in Seattle made a daring escape by jumping a gap on the University Bridge as it was raising, while being pursued by police. The dramatic event was caught on traffic cameras, creating a viral sensation that has left many viewers both amazed and debating the police response.
According to Detective Brian Pritchard of the Seattle Police Department, the incident occurred on September 17, 2025, around 12:20 p.m. The chase began when officers spotted a stolen Audi Q5 near 10th Avenue East and Roanoke Street. The suspect drove recklessly on the wrong side of the road and on the University Bridge, attempting to avoid stopped traffic.
Most shockingly, despite the bridge raising with a gap of approximately 4 feet, the driver crashed through the guard barriers and jumped the gap, landing recklessly but safely on the other side, escaping the police pursuit.
Police vehicles quickly arrived and stopped near the damaged barricades to assess the situation while the suspect’s car sped away. The driver was able to elude officers, and the stolen vehicle was later found abandoned nearby in the University District with significant undercarriage damage.
Reactions on social media were filled with humor and disbelief, with many joking that the police “missed the chance of a lifetime.” Comments referenced classic car chase movies like Smokey and the Bandit and The Dukes of Hazzard, marveling at the stunt’s cinematic quality.
Det. Pritchard clarified that police never intended to chase the suspect over the bridge, emphasizing, “It’s not the movies. We’d never do anything like that.” He acknowledged the risks involved in such an action and underscored the dangers of high-speed pursuits.
Despite missing the driver, authorities continue to investigate, warning the public about the serious consequences of reckless driving and criminal activity. The incident remains fresh in the minds of Seattle residents, who are now calling it one of the most audacious escapes ever witnessed live.
