Semi-truck driver arrested after crashing into Michigan State Police cruisers on I-75
ROYAL OAK, Mich. (FOX 2) - The driver of a semi-truck was arrested after he crashed into a Michigan State Police cruiser that had parked on I-75 for an investigation into a separate crash early Thursday morning.
The crash left several vehicles damaged and one state trooper in the hospital with minor injuries.
Footage from the scene showed multiple MSP patrol units with major damage after being struck by the semi just after midnight near the 11 Mile road ramp.
The tractor-trailer crashed after trying to pass slowing traffic by moving into the left lane - which is where state troopers were parked with their emergency lights on.
Three troopers were originally at the scene of a multi-car crash at the exit ramp on southbound I-75 and had parked on the left shoulder and left lane.
The semi attempted to brake after coming upon the parked MSP vehicles, causing him to lose control and crash into the first patrol car - sending it 100 yards into the rear of another state police car where one of the troopers was sitting.
The semi continued sliding, nearly hitting the other two troopers before striking a third vehicle involved in the initial crash.
Both officers manage to avoid the semi by jumping over the median wall.
Damaged Michigan State Police cruiser after a crash involving a semi-truck that lost control on I-75.
After arresting the driver, they charged him with reckless driving. The state trooper who was hospitalized was eventually released.
The second district's first lieutenant admonished drivers for going to fast, risky behavior while on the roads, and the people who decided to photograph the scene afterward.
"This incident had everything we have been talking about this last month." said Mike Shaw. "…responding troopers had to remove pedestrians from the freeway ramps who were trying to take photos for their favorite social media platform. We are continuing to ask drivers to slow down, move over, drive safe and please do not walk on the freeway."
Winter Weather Advisory: Southeast Michigan waking up to snowy morning, blustery conditions
Commuters should plan ahead and expect their trip to work to take longer than usual thanks to a snow band that dumped and continues to dump flakes across Southeast Michigan.