New Bedford, Massachusetts – Two New Bedford police officers were injured Friday night after their unmarked cruiser was struck by an oncoming vehicle while responding to an active pursuit. Authorities confirmed both officers were transported to a nearby hospital and later released after receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
The crash led to the arrest of two men who now face multiple charges, including operating under the influence and drug possession.
Crash Occurred While Officers Assisted Active Pursuit
According to police, the incident happened near the intersection of County and Thompson streets. Two officers in an unmarked cruiser were attempting to assist with an ongoing vehicle pursuit when their cruiser was struck by an oncoming car.
Authorities stated that although the cruiser was unmarked, the officers had activated both lights and sirens while responding. The vehicle that collided with the cruiser was not involved in the pursuit.
Impact Caused Significant Property Damage
The force of the collision caused the police cruiser to veer off course. Investigators said the cruiser first hit a parked vehicle and a nearby light pole before ultimately crashing into the side of a residential home.
Officials confirmed that:
- The parked car sustained significant damage
- The light pole was heavily damaged
- The home suffered minor structural damage
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, securing the area and assessing injuries.
Officers Transported to Hospital
First responders removed both injured officers from the damaged cruiser and transported them to a nearby hospital. Police reported that the officers’ injuries were not life-threatening. After receiving medical treatment, both officers were released.
No additional serious injuries were reported among residents of the home that was struck.
Driver and Passenger Face Multiple Charges
Police identified the driver of the vehicle that struck the cruiser as 45-year-old Miguel Ramos. He was arrested and charged with:
- Operating under the influence of liquor (OUI)
- Negligent operation of a motor vehicle
- Failure to stop and yield
- Possession of a Class B substance
The passenger, 45-year-old Marcos Cruz, was also taken into custody and charged with possession of a Class B substance.
Authorities did not disclose further details regarding the type of substance recovered but confirmed both men were formally arrested at the scene.
Investigation Ongoing
Police emphasized that the vehicle driven by Ramos was not connected to the active pursuit underway at the time of the crash. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision to determine the full sequence of events.
Officials have not announced a court date for the two suspects but stated that the investigation remains active.
The incident underscores the dangers officers face while responding to emergency situations, even when operating clearly with lights and sirens activated. Authorities are urging drivers to remain alert and yield appropriately when emergency vehicles are approaching.
Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
