In the early hours of Saturday morning, a Tampa Police Officer found himself in harm’s way while responding to a call regarding a person sleeping near the railroad tracks on Busch Boulevard, near 15th Street.
What was meant to be a routine check turned into a perilous situation when the officer’s vehicle was struck by a black Ford F150 as he returned to it. This unfortunate collision resulted in the officer being dragged approximately 75 feet as he clung to the front of his police car.
The injured officer was transported to a nearby hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment for his injuries. Thankfully, while the injuries are serious, they are not life-threatening.
The driver of the Ford, remained at the scene and fully cooperated with the ongoing investigation.
“The dangers inherent to the job of public servants are all too real,” said Chief Bercaw who is currently at the hospital, checking on the injured officer. “I am thankful that this officer will recover from what could have been a fatal event, and return to protect and serve our community another day. The Tampa Police Department will provide all the support he and his family may need throughout his recuperation process.”
Updates on the officer’s condition, as well as the investigation, may be provided as they become available. The department thanked everyone for their thoughts and concerns during the officer’s recovery.