Drunken Driver Crashes Into Police Car At Separate Crash Scene In Tennessee

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating after an alleged drunken driver struck a local police vehicle at the scene of a separate crash investigation.

The Franklin Police Department said the “routine” crash investigation on Interstate 65 near CoolSprings Galleria at around 3:30 a.m. Wednesday “nearly became something much worse.”

As officers were investigating that crash, another driver “slammed” into a patrol vehicle. A video shared by the police department shows the moment the collision occurred, as well as the damage to the patrol vehicle.

“Thankfully, the officer assigned to the cruiser was outside of the vehicle at the time, and the driver was not injured,” police said.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the investigation. The driver, whose identity was not immediately released, was charged with DUI.

“This video is also a sobering reminder that every crash scene is an active work zone. Police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and tow operators put themselves in harm’s way to help others, often just feet from speeding traffic,” police said. “If you’ve been drinking or using drugs that impair your ability to drive, don’t get behind the wheel. Arrange a ride, call someone you trust, or stay where you are.”