Sheriff’s Deputy Injured in Hit-and-Run Crash on I-81
A sheriff’s deputy from the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office sustained minor injuries in a hit-and-run crash on Sunday night. The incident occurred on Interstate 81 when the deputy’s marked Ford Explorer was struck by a tractor-trailer from behind. The collision happened as both vehicles entered a work zone near mile marker 220.
The impact was forceful enough to propel the deputy’s vehicle approximately 100 feet down the interstate, causing it to collide with a Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) work truck. The cruiser spun around after hitting the energy-absorbing bumper of the VDOT truck, while the tractor-trailer continued traveling north on the interstate without stopping.
Fortunately, VDOT workers in the vicinity were quick to assist the injured deputy. Unfortunately, the deputy’s patrol unit suffered severe damage, rendering his radio inoperable. Despite this setback, the injured deputy received medical attention at Augusta Health in Fishersville and was treated for minor injuries.
Sheriff Donald Smith expressed his gratitude for the prompt response by VDOT workers, along with the assistance provided by Virginia State Police, Augusta County Fire-Rescue, the Riverheads Volunteer Fire Department, and the Augusta County Emergency Communications Center. Additionally, Sheriff Smith emphasized the importance of the deputy wearing his seatbelt, which likely mitigated the severity of his injuries.
In conclusion, a sheriff’s deputy was injured in a hit-and-run crash involving a tractor-trailer on Interstate 81. Despite sustaining minor injuries, the deputy received medical treatment and is expected to recover. Law enforcement agencies are actively seeking information to locate the responsible party in this incident.
