Rhode Island: State Police trooper struck by car in Lincoln

A Rhode Island State Police trooper was struck by a car on route 146 southbound in Lincoln Sunday while trying to assist another disabled vehicle on the side of the road. The trooper from the Scituate barracks was outside of his marked cruiser on 146 south, just north of route 116 in Lincoln, around 11 a.m. trying to assist a disabled vehicle.

According to state police, another driver traveling in the left lane on route 146 south lost control of their vehicle on the wet roadway, and veered right into the police cruiser and the trooper standing near the front of his car. As a result of this crash, the cruiser was pushed forward into the rear of the disabled vehicle.The trooper was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, was treated and released for non-life threatening injuries. Additionally, a passenger in the disabled car complained of some minor pain.

The incident is currently under investigation by troopers from the Rhode Island State Police Scituate and Lincoln barracks, the Rhode Island State Police collision reconstruction unit, and forensic science unit. No charges have been filed. Initial indications reveal drugs and alcohol are not a factor in this crash, but weather and speed have not been ruled out.

The Rhode Island State Police caution motorists to exercise caution and reduce speed while operating during periods of inclement weather and in the vicinity of emergency or service vehicles.