A traffic stop initiated by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) in Crestview Thursday morning resulted in the driver taking off and a vehicle pursuit ensued. According to Troopers, FHP received information of a stolen vehicle that was being tracked in Crestview around 9 a.m. As Troopers tried to initiate a traffic stop, the driver took off at a high rate of speed. Troopers gave chase and contacted the Walton County Sheriff’s Office to assist as the driver drove east. Deputies joined the pursuit and as the vehicle approached DeFuniak Springs, DeFuniak Springs Police responded to assist. Officers deployed spike strips in efforts to stop the vehicle. The vehicle continued east before crashing in front of Plateful Restaurant near the intersection of U.S. Highway 331 S. “This driver put the lives of our citizens in danger,” said Chief Mark Weeks. “Fortunately no bystanders were hurt .” The crash caused massive damage to a concrete sign base, light pole, and busted a water main. DeFuniak Springs Fire Department, Walton Fire Rescue, and DeFuniak Springs Public Works responded to assist with scene safety and clean-up. The occupants of the vehicle complained of injuries and were transported to Healthmark Regional Medical Center. FHP is in charge of the investigation and charges are pending.