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West Palm Beach police vehicle involved in fiery, deadly wreck

Marked vehicle crashes at Hypoluxo Road and Lawrence Road in Boynton Beach, police say
A West Palm Beach police vehicle involved in a deadly crash at Hypoluxo Road and Lawrence Road in Boynton Beach on July 28, 2023.jpg
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BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. — A West Palm Beach police vehicle was involved in a fiery and deadly crash early Friday in Boynton Beach, authorities said.

The Boynton Beach Police Department said officers were called to the intersection of Hypoluxo Road and Lawrence Road just after 2:30 a.m.

Investigators said a marked West Palm Beach police vehicle had crashed and caught fire, killing the driver. However, the driver's identity has not been confirmed at this time.

Aerial video from WPTV Chopper 5 showed a tow truck taking the charred wreckage of the police vehicle away from the scene, as well as a large utility pole on the ground in the intersection.

WATCH: Chopper 5 video of deadly Boynton Beach crash

Chopper 5 video of deadly Boynton Beach crash

Traffic homicide investigators with the Boynton Beach Police Department are working to determine what led up to the wreck.

"During this profoundly difficult time, our thoughts, prayers, and sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim, as well as the West Palm Beach Police Department," the Boynton Beach Police Department said in a news release.

At nearby Suite 102 Salon and Spa, Johnna Lobato said she heard about the crash on Facebook. Lobato said the intersection is known for accidents.

"At this intersection, horrible all the time," she said.

Noel Castillio, who stopped for gas at a nearby 7-Eleven, said the wreck looked "like a movie."

Louis Velasquez couldn't believe the sight of the vehicle.

"That's tragic, man," he said. "It's crazy. That whole car is literally roasted."

The West Palm Beach Police Department was awaiting positive identification of the driver, which spokesman Mike Jachles said could take several days.