Crime & Courts

Florida man dead after vehicle chase ends in a crash in Norton County

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. Wichita Eagle file photo

A 29-year-old Florida man is dead after authorities attempted to stop him in Norton County.

A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper tried to stop the man for “erratic driving” around 10:36 a.m. Saturday, Kansas Highway Patrol crash logs show.

Derek Stortzum, 29, of Brooksville, Florida, was driving a 2020 Chevy Silverado on highway U283 about 14 miles south of Norton, the report says.

Stortzum ran from the trooper, and the KHP used a TVI maneuver, or a controlled use of force using a patrol vehicle to end a pursuit.

“He lost control of his vehicle while trying to flee from the trooper,” Trooper Tod Hileman said in a phone call.

The Silverado “ended up in the north ditch facing northeast on its wheels,” the report reads.

The report indicates Stortzum died at the scene.

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Eduardo Castillo
The Wichita Eagle
Eduardo covers crime and breaking news for The Wichita Eagle. His previous work experience includes stints at KWCH 12 Eyewitness News, the local CBS affiliate in Wichita, and as a marketing manager for a local real estate team. In addition to writing, Eduardo also enjoys still photography and cinematography. News tips? email at Edcastillo@wichitaeagle.com or call 316-268-6213.
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