On September 18th at about 10:30 pm, a Lane County Deputy driving his patrol vehicle was struck by another motorist in the 5100 block of Franklin Boulevard.  The deputy radioed the at-fault vehicle may have also struck a 3rd vehicle nearby. Officers with the Springfield Police Department responded and investigated the crash.

The head on collision caused front end damage to both the at fault car and the Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle. The patrol vehicle was towed from the scene. During the investigation SPD Officers arrested the at-fault driver, Ryder Lee Carlton, for DUI. Thankfully no one was seriously injured in the crash, and the deputy is back on duty.

Sadly, this is now the second time this deputy has been struck by an intoxicated motorist this year.  On February 8th while patrolling on the McKenzie Highway this deputy was hit by another drunk driver.  OSP Troopers responded and conducted that crash investigation and ultimately the other driver was arrested for DUI.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to stay sober behind the wheel. Never drink and drive or drive after consuming a substance. Everyone needs to be cautious of people driving impaired on our roadways.  Even police can become victims with intoxicated persons behind the wheel.