Why Pasco Hit-And-Run Suspect Fled Police

As more details about the backround of the hit-and-run suspect in last Thursday's fatal crash are coming out, it's not surprise the driver fled police.

23-year-old Miguel A. Paniagua has a lengthy criminal backround, is well-known to Pasco police and is a known gang member. Police have been seeking him since February because he failed to pay numerous fines and court costs. They stem from six different cases, as far back as 2008 when he was still a juvenile.

Paniagua sped away from police last Thursday when they attempted to pull him over for a traffic violation.  After terminating the pursuit due to traffic safety, Paniagua continued to speed for numerous blocks on Sylvester before slamming into a car driven by 36-year-old Jason Edward Smith of Kennewick, who was killed.

Paniagua's record reads like a career offender, who has repeatedly engaged in violent behavior with disregard for the law.  In February, after failing to appear in court, six felony warrants for his arrest were issued. From armed confrontations to alcohol related incidents, to reckless driving, his criminal history is lengthy and disturbing.

Officials say there may be information indicating a location for Paniagua, the investigation continues.