D.C. officer hospitalized after being struck by speeding car while aiding motorist on I-695
Washington, DC – A late-night act of service nearly turned fatal for a Metropolitan Police Department officer who was struck by a speeding vehicle while assisting a disabled car on I-695 Tuesday night, leaving him hospitalized with serious injuries.
The incident unfolded around 10:10 p.m. near South Capitol Street, where the officer had exited his cruiser to help a stranded driver in the eastbound lanes. As he stood outside the vehicle, a second motorist, reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed, collided with the officer.
Other officers on the scene immediately began first aid, and the injured officer was rushed to a local hospital. He remains under medical care for serious injuries.
The driver who struck the officer stayed at the scene and was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the disabled vehicle was not harmed in the crash.
Traffic was briefly halted following the collision but all lanes on I-695 have since reopened. The MPD’s Major Crash Investigations Unit is handling the ongoing investigation.
Officials say no additional updates will be made available until the department’s Public Information Office resumes regular operations.
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Key Points
- MPD officer seriously injured after being struck on I-695
- Officer was aiding a broken down motorist when hit by a speeding driver
- Investigation ongoing; both drivers remained on scene