Colorado Springs, CO (November 15, 2024) – A Colorado State Patrol trooper was injured on November 13, 2024, when his patrol vehicle was struck by a sedan while he was investigating an earlier crash.
The incident occurred around 3:44 PM at the intersection of Highway 115 and Little Turkey Creek Rd, south of Colorado Springs. Trooper Tyler Atkins was inside his marked patrol car, working from there, when the collision took place. The vehicle that caused the crash is suspected of being driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The impact caused significant damage to the patrol car, though Trooper Atkins was not seriously injured. He was airlifted to a nearby hospital as a precaution but has since been released and is recovering at home.
Our thoughts go to the victims as we hope for their recovery.
Law Enforcement Safety in Colorado
The crash involving Trooper Atkins has raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers on the roads, especially when they are conducting investigations at crash sites. Law enforcement officers often find themselves working in dangerous conditions, with traffic speeding by and potential hazards all around. In this case, the collision occurred when a sedan rear-ended the patrol car, highlighting the risks that officers face, even when stationary at the scene of an earlier incident.
As a result of the crash, Highway 115 was closed for several hours while authorities investigated the scene. The disruption affected traffic, but the focus remained on ensuring the safety of all involved, including Trooper Atkins. Fortunately, despite the severity of the damage to the patrol car, Trooper Atkins was able to recover and is expected to make a full recovery.
This incident underscores the importance of driving attentively and responsibly, especially when passing law enforcement vehicles. Motorists should slow down and be extra cautious when approaching emergency scenes to avoid endangering both officers and other drivers. This also highlights the need for continued efforts to prevent impaired driving, as the driver of the sedan involved in the crash is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you or someone you know has been affected by an accident involving law enforcement or impaired drivers, it is important to seek legal assistance to understand your rights. Local Accident Reports continues to provide timely updates on accidents and safety issues, keeping the community informed and helping those impacted by such events.