Spanaway, Washington – Deputies Injured After Suspect Rams Car During Chase

Spanaway, Washington (December 22, 2019) – Two deputies were injures after a suspect rammed their vehicle during a chase on 8th Avenue East near Mountain Highway East on Sunday evening. The deputies’ car collided with a tree from the impact, and both sustained minor injuries. One of the deputies required hospitalization after the incident. The suspect was also wounded but was eventually taken into custody and taken to a local hospital.

According to the information from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a domestic violence incident on 70th Avenue East near Mathias Road. The suspect was reported to be armed and suicidal, and while shots were fired no one was injured in this encounter. The suspect eventually stole a car and drove off, but was found two hours later on 8th Avenue East. Deputies gave chase, and it was during this time that the suspect rammed the deputies’ car. Eventually deputies got the suspect to crash into a ditch and managed to take him into custody. The incident caused all lanes of Mountain Highway East to be blocked while police investigation was ongoing.

About Vehicle Accidents

While this particular incident contains a criminal element, it is important to note that accidents of other causes can also result in damage or injuries. In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

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