Sheriff's Deputy Injured In Crash With Wrong Way Driver
TAMPA (CBSMiami/AP) – A sheriff's deputy was hospitalized early Sunday after an alleged drunk driver slammed into his patrol car.
Deputy Juan Lazu was on patrol early Sunday when his car was struck by a sport utility vehicle that had crossed the median and was driving the wrong way, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
Lazu, who was trapped in his vehicle, managed to call for help on his radio. Sheriff's office spokesman Larry McKinnon says deputies pulled Lazu from his vehicle shortly before it went up in flames.
McKinnon says Lazu was hospitalized with minor injuries. The SUV's driver was treated at a hospital before being taken to the county jail.
McKinnon says the SUV's driver had a strong odor of alcohol. Charges are pending.
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