Dallas police are searching for a driver who reportedly fled the scene after striking an officer riding a motorcycle on Interstate 35E on Monday.
The crash unfolded around 12:45 a.m. as the officer rode northbound on North Stemmons Freeway near Inwood Road. A white SUV struck the officer from behind and caused his motorcycle to go down, Fox 4 KDFW reported.
The officer ran to the shoulder. Soon after, a second vehicle slammed into the fallen motorcycle, sending it over the freeway edge to the service road below. That vehicle rotated 180 degrees before halting on the shoulder.
Paramedics took the officer to a local hospital. He is expected to recover fully.
The SUV sped away initially. Investigators later found it wrecked about two miles from the crash site after it left the roadway and collided with a signpost. Police are searching for the driver, who had fled on foot.
No other details have emerged as the probe continues. The officer, whose injuries were described as non-life-threatening, has not been publicly identified.
“This crash serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly routine calls can turn dangerous for the men and women who serve our city. Our motorcycle officer was assisting on a call when he was struck from behind and thrown from his motorcycle,” Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux said.
“We are thankful his injuries are not life-threatening, but we are determined to identify the driver responsible. If you have any information, we urge you to contact us immediately,” Comeaux added.
Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the person responsible for this felony offense. Tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 214-373-TIPS.