Dallas, TX — A Dallas County Sheriff’s deputy is recovering from severe injuries after being struck by a vehicle and thrown off a bridge while responding to an early-morning crash on Interstate 35. The frightening incident happened before sunrise on Saturday, turning a routine investigation into a life-threatening emergency.
Initial Crash on I-35 Leads to Secondary Collision
According to Doug Sisk, Public Information Officer with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 3:11 a.m. on the northbound lanes of I-35, just past the connection with Interstate 635 and directly above Harry Hines Boulevard.
Deputies had been called to investigate a crash involving a Tesla at the location. Authorities say the Tesla driver was involved in a secondary collision after the original crash. While being detained, the driver was placed in the deputy’s patrol vehicle for safety and further evaluation.
Ford F-150 Loses Control and Slams Into Patrol Vehicle
Moments later, a Ford F-150 traveling through the area reportedly lost control on the slick roadway and crashed into the deputy’s parked squad vehicle. At the time of impact, the deputy was standing in the narrow space between his patrol car and the bridge railing, according to investigators.
The violent collision sent the deputy over the edge of the overpass, causing him to fall down onto Harry Hines Boulevard below. Emergency crews rushed to his aid, and he was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries, as per CBS News. His exact condition has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Tesla Driver Injured; F-150 Driver Not Facing Charges
The Tesla driver, who had been detained in the squad car at the time it was struck, also suffered injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. Police later confirmed that the driver was released after receiving medical care.
Authorities said the Ford F-150 driver was evaluated at the scene and was not impaired. At this time, the driver will not be charged, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Another Deputy Injured Minutes Later in Separate Crash
In a disturbing sequence of events, just eight minutes later — at approximately 3:19 a.m. — a second Dallas County deputy was injured in an unrelated crash just south of the first scene on northbound I-35 near Reunion Boulevard.
The Sheriff’s Office reports that the squad vehicle hit a curve, lost control, struck a wall, and then collided with a pickup truck before coming to rest in the center median. That deputy was transported to a hospital, treated for minor injuries, and later released.
Road Conditions and Investigation Ongoing
Officials believe slick road conditions may have played a role in both crashes. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incidents while offering support to the injured deputies and their families.
The circumstances highlight the high-risk environments law enforcement officers face while responding to roadside emergencies — especially during dark, early morning hours and hazardous weather.
Community Support Encouraged
The Sheriff’s Office has not released the identity of the seriously injured deputy as his recovery continues. More updates are expected as the investigation develops.
What’s Your Reaction?
Do you think additional safety measures are needed to protect first responders at highway crash scenes — especially on major roadways like I-35 in Dallas, Texas?
Share your thoughts and well wishes for the injured deputies in the comments below!
