Hammond, Indiana – An Indiana State Police patrol vehicle was struck during a Sunday night traffic stop on Interstate 80, prompting an ongoing crash investigation.
According to the Indiana State Police Bremen District, the crash occurred around 9:55 p.m. Sunday on eastbound I-80 near Indianapolis Boulevard. Sgt. Fifield had stopped a Kia for a traffic violation and was positioned on the right shoulder with emergency lights activated.
Police said as Sgt. Fifield exited his marked patrol vehicle, he observed a vehicle traveling toward him in the emergency lane. The vehicle, later identified as a 2020 Ford Fusion, allegedly failed to merge into a travel lane and continued along the shoulder.
Recognizing the danger, Sgt. Fifield reportedly jumped over a nearby concrete barrier moments before the Ford struck the rear of his patrol car. The impact pushed the police vehicle into the Kia that had been stopped. The Ford came to rest in the right lane.
Sgt. Fifield was not injured. The driver of the Ford was transported for medical treatment. Preliminary investigation indicates the driver may have been experiencing a medical emergency at the time of the crash, according to ISP.
Both vehicles sustained extensive damage and were towed from the scene. Additional troopers responded to assist with traffic control and investigation.
Lt. Terrance Weems, Commander of the ISP Lowell Post, reminded motorists to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles.
The crash remains under investigation.
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