Sunday, July 12, 2015

New Orleans police officer seriously hurt in ricochet crash while he was investigating a vehicle fire


Posted: Jul 12, 2015
 
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - 

New Orleans police say one car hit another on Interstate 10, than hit and seriously injured an officer who was investigating a vehicle fire.

A news release says 47-year-old Officer Vernell Brown is in serious condition after the accident Sunday morning.

Earlier news releases said he was hit by a hit-and-run driver, but police spokesman Tyler Gamble says that was a mistake.

Police say the 17-year department veteran was walking near the guardrail when a Ford Mustang collided with a Toyota Scion, then hit him.

Police say the Mustang's driver tested negative for alcohol, and the other driver was under the legal limit. They say both sustained minor injuries, and both remained on the scene.

Police say they'll consult with prosecutors before deciding whether to file any charges.