A driver lost control of his vehicle and slammed into a stopped Warren police cruiser on I-696 Sunday afternoon.
According to the Warren Police Department, the marked patrol car was stopped in the left lane on westbound I-696 near Mound Road with emergency lights activated while officers were tending to a separate single-vehicle crash. A 75-year-old driver, later identified as operating a Chevrolet Traverse, failed to slow down for conditions and struck the rear of the police cruiser.
Both vehicles sustained moderate damage. No officers or civilians were injured in the collision.
Investigators determined the driver was traveling too fast for the road conditions. Police confirmed that drugs and alcohol were not factors. The driver was issued a citation at the scene.
“This incident was entirely preventable and serves as a stark reminder of the risks our officers face every time they step out of their vehicles,” said Eric Hawkins. “While we are profoundly grateful that no one was seriously injured or killed, these situations too often end in the loss of a first responder’s life. Our goal is for others to learn from this incident and make sure it does not happen again.”
As New Year’s Eve approaches and winter weather continues, police are urging drivers to slow down and adjust their speed to match road conditions. The department also reminded motorists to follow Michigan’s Move Over law by yielding to emergency vehicles and changing lanes when it is safe to do so.
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