TAMPA, Fla. (AP) _ Authorities say a Tampa Bay-area sheriff’s deputy is recovering after his patrol car was struck by a drunk driver.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says Deputy Juan Lazu was on patrol early Sunday when his car was struck by a sport utility vehicle that had crossed the median and was driving the wrong way.
Lazu was trapped in his vehicle after the crash but was able to call for help on his radio.
Sheriff’s office spokesman Larry McKinnon says deputies pulled Lazu from his vehicle shortly before it went up in flames.
McKinnon says Lazu was hospitalized with minor injuries.
The SUV’s driver was treated at a hospital before being taken to the county jail.
McKinnon says the SUV’s driver had a strong odor of alcohol.
Charges are pending.
