Trooper likely saved lives in selfless act
OSP Sargent headed into oncoming traffic to save lives after an out-of-control Ford Mustang was spotted operating erratically.
On March 18, 2022, at about 6:00 PM, OSP received several driving complaints regarding a white Ford Mustang. The driver of the Mustang was reported to be operating erratically on Interstate 84, eastbound from milepost 35. Near milepost 51, a Hood River County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop the car, and a pursuit ensued. The driving behavior of the Mustang deteriorated even more, so the deputy terminated the pursuit near milepost 60.
The driver of the Mustang avoided at least two stop-stick deployments. The driver continued east on I-84, eventually taking the first exit (82) into The Dalles. Officers and Troopers were stationed at the top of the exit. The driver turned around on the off-ramp and drove the wrong way down the off-ramp towards the eastbound lanes of I-84. Sgt. Calloway, attempting to catch up to the Mustang, took the exit.
Seeing the Mustang was going to get on I-84 the wrong way, he decided to prevent this by intentionally colliding with the Mustang. As a result of the crash Sgt. Calloway sustained minor injuries. He was treated and released from Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital.
The suspect was transported to Mid-Columbia Medical Center in The Dalles, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Dalles Police Department is leading the crash investigation. Reports from all agencies involved are being compiled and will be submitted to the appropriate District Attorney.
Featured image credit: Nana B Agyei/Flickr