A serious incident unfolded on a Sunday evening in New Berlin, where an intoxicated driver caused a multi-vehicle accident involving a police squad car. The event resulted in the arrest of the impaired motorist and minor injuries to a law enforcement officer. This unusual encounter highlights the dangers of drunk driving and the unpredictable nature of traffic accidents. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, emphasizing the rarity of such incidents.

Unexpected Confrontation: Drunk Driver Meets Police Vehicle Head-On

The collision occurred around 10:24 p.m. on Moorland Road when a vehicle was spotted traveling in the wrong direction. A police officer, navigating southbound, observed the approaching car heading directly towards him in the opposite lane. Despite efforts to avoid a head-on collision, the situation escalated into a three-car pileup. The officer sustained a broken finger during the incident, marking it as one of the rare occasions where a drunk driver unintentionally collides with a patrol vehicle outside of a pursuit scenario.

In this unfortunate sequence of events, the officer’s swift reaction could not prevent the inevitable impact. The vehicle driven by the impaired individual struck the police car while attempting to evade the oncoming traffic. Additionally, another vehicle became involved in the collision. The injured officer, a seasoned member of the department for five years, was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and later discharged. The incident underscores the unpredictable risks faced by law enforcement officers even in routine patrols.

Swift Action: Arrest and Investigation Following the Crash

Following the collision, immediate action was taken by local authorities. The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office, responding to a request from New Berlin police, arrested a 57-year-old resident at the scene. The suspect was charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI), which marked his third offense, along with causing injury. The individual was subsequently transferred to the county jail. Simultaneously, the Wisconsin State Patrol joined the investigation to ensure a thorough examination of the incident.

This case exemplifies the collaborative efforts between various law enforcement agencies to address alcohol-related traffic violations. The incident also serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from impaired driving. Captain Brad Polczynski of the New Berlin Police Department noted the infrequency of such occurrences, recalling only one similar event from about 15 years ago. As charges against the driver remain pending, this incident will likely prompt discussions on enhancing road safety measures and reinforcing penalties for repeat offenders.