"High-Speed Pursuit: Carjacker Shot Dead by Police After 50-Mile Chase"

THIS is the dramatic moment a carjacker who tried to snatch a police car was mowed down and shot dead by cops.

Footage shows a man wanted for a series of car thefts in California, America, trying to dodge gunfire in a wild 50 mile police chase.

A cop shoots at the suspect who shields himself behind a police carCredit: @bianka4o8 A cop car mows over the mans body after he collapsed on the floorCredit: ABC7

Police were in pursuit of the suspect after he stole a vehicle from a San Jose car dealership and drove south toward Hollister.

But when he stole a second vehicle in Hollister, attempting to return to San Jose, chaos ensued.

Cops from San Benito County Sheriff’s Office hunted the man in a high speed chase through several South Bay cities.

The pursuit came to an abrupt stop near Highway 87 at Notre Dame Avenue, ABC7 reported .

Running from his vehicle, cops said the man suddenly tried to steal a squad car as he opened fire.

Multiple gunshots rung out in a vicious shoot out as the suspect fled towards the side of the road, where he collapsed.

Moments later a police car with lights blaring swerves around the corner and ploughs over the man’s body as officers continued to fire.

San Jose police say a sergeant was injured in the shootout. He does not have life-threatening injuries and is expected to survive, they added.

The suspect, who has not been identified, died during the confrontation, police said. Officials have not released a cause of death.

Highway 87 and several streets in the area remain closed in the aftermath of the incident.

Footage shows emergency vehicles flooding the scene as a helicopter flies overhead.

Emergency vehicles swarm the scene after the shoot out

San Jose Police Officers Association President Steve Slack said in a statement: “The incredible bravery exhibited by every officer, especially the SJPD Sgt who was shot and hospitalized after confronting the dangerous criminal, was on full display yesterday.

“Clearly this criminal had no regard for anyone’s life and endangered hundreds of innocent people during his multiple county crime spree.

“Our officers displayed courage as they ran toward gunfire and ultimately eliminated the threat.

“The injured Sgt is in good spirits and we are supporting him and his family in every way we can.”

This follows a .

CBS News Los Angeles was broadcasting a 30-minute high-speed pursuit through the Mount Washington neighbourhood, and its anchors were left aghast after witnessing the brutal smash.

Live footage from a police chopper showed a white van hurtling down the 110 Freeway, with cop cars close behind.

As it slowed down, the driver bundled out and leapt over the central reservation, into the opposite carriageway.

The man lost his footing and scrambled on the tarmac as a car entered the frame and smashed into him.

CBS’s camera had zoomed in to capture the drama, meaning the anchors and viewers saw the full horror.

Police later confirmed the suspect died at the scene.