Four state patrol cruisers hit in just three days due to icy roads
- A Colorado State Patrol vehicle was struck while attending to a traffic incident on I-70 without injuries reported.
- Over a three-day period, a total of four CSP cruisers were hit as they assisted motorists during treacherous conditions.
- Authorities warned drivers to remain cautious and adjust their driving to the prevailing weather conditions to protect responders.
In the United States, specifically Colorado, a concerning series of events occurred that involved the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) during a three-day span. It began when a trooper was responding to a crash on Interstate 70 near New Castle, where they were struck by another vehicle while blocking traffic. Fortunately, no injuries were reported for the trooper or the other driver involved. This incident highlighted the dangers faced by emergency responders on busy highways, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Just days later, the CSP reported three more incidents involving their cruisers being struck while attending to other crashes. On the same day of the initial incident, a trooper attempted to pull over a driver with their headlights off but ended up becoming involved in a collision when that vehicle hit a guardrail before crashing into the CSP cruiser. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence and taken to the hospital for injuries sustained. The following day, further incidents occurred, including one involving a semi-truck colliding with a CSP vehicle while the trooper was assisting another motorist. Thankfully, there were no injuries. Also, another CSP cruiser was struck while the officer was attempting to manage multiple crashes caused by icy conditions on a highway. Despite the numerous collisions, officials emphasized that drivers were expected to adapt their behavior to the real-time conditions on the roads and ensure that first responders are given the space needed to operate safely. Throughout this tumultuous period, officials strongly urged motorists to exercise caution and vigilance while driving, especially under severe weather conditions such as those caused by heavy snowfall and ice. The message from Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, emphasized the responsibility drivers have for the safety of emergency responders as well as other motorists on the road, particularly acknowledging the continuing risks posed by distracted driving and DUI incidents during such hazardous weather.