A driver fleeing police drove at high speed through central Prague last week on Friday, running red lights, driving against traffic, and entering sidewalks where pedestrians had to jump out of the way.

The incident began on Vodičkova Street, where police attempted to stop the driver over a suspected traffic offense. The driver refused to stop and fled.

Police patrols joined the chase as the car moved through narrow streets in the city center. The driver ran multiple red lights and drove in the opposite direction of traffic. At several points, he drove onto sidewalks.

Police spokesman Jan Rybanský said pedestrians were narrowly missed. “The driver repeatedly violated traffic regulations and entered sidewalks. Pedestrians had to jump out of his path,” he said.

City police said the chase lasted about ten minutes. Officers attempted to block the vehicle several times but the driver escaped each attempt.

The chase ended near the Municipal House, where the car crashed into a van. The 39-year-old driver then attempted to flee on foot but was detained nearby.

Police later confirmed the driver had never held a valid driving license and was listed as wanted. During the chase, a passenger jumped out of the moving vehicle and fled.

That man was arrested shortly afterward in Vrchlického sady.

Alcohol and drug tests on the driver were negative. Police charged him with public endangerment, which carries a possible prison sentence of up to eight years. He also faces charges related to damage to a police vehicle.

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