A suspected impaired driver slammed into a marked Dallas police cruiser at Abrams Road and Royal Lane today, injuring two officers and sending all involved to local hospitals, according to Dallas police.
Officers identified the driver as 33-year-old John Gutierrez. The two officers were taken to a hospital in a private vehicle, while Gutierrez was transported by Dallas Fire-Rescue. Police say the investigation is still active and ongoing.
What officials say
The crash was first detailed by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, which cited WFAA-TV and statements from Dallas police. The Star-Telegram’s account named Gutierrez as the suspect and reported that he faces allegations of driving while intoxicated and carrying an unlawful weapon.
A familiar, dangerous pattern
Crashes involving suspected impaired drivers slamming into occupied or parked squad cars have become a disturbing trend in Dallas this year. FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth reported that two similar incidents in late April led to arrests and renewed worries about roadside safety for first responders who are often working just feet from moving traffic.
Charges and next steps
According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Gutierrez faces a charge of driving while intoxicated along with a separate count for carrying an unlawful weapon. Dallas police have not released additional details on the two injured officers’ conditions, and prosecutors will decide on formal filings as the case moves forward…