In the early hours of Thursday, a serious mishap occurred within the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) as officers pursued a suspect who fled a traffic stop. At approximately 1:30 a.m., officers attempted to stop a vehicle near the intersection of Southeast 141st Avenue and Southeast Stark Street. The driver accelerated away, weaving into a nearby apartment complex.
Search expands, officer injured
PPB officers quickly established a perimeter and called for additional personnel to aid the search. While officers were coordinating the effort on foot, a patrol vehicle driven by a fellow PPB officer inadvertently struck the on‑foot officer. The collision caused serious injuries, and the officer was rushed to a local hospital. Medical staff indicated that the officer is expected to survive.
Police response and investigation
Chief Bob Day visited the injured officer in the hospital and issued a statement, describing the incident as “frightening and deeply difficult.” He expressed thoughts for the injured officer and his family, as well as for the officer who was driving the patrol vehicle and the other officers present at the scene.
PPB’s Major Crash Team will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident. In addition, the department’s Collision Review Board, which reviews all crashes involving PPB officers, will evaluate whether the crash was preventable and will forward its findings to the precinct commander.
Driver remains at large
The driver who initially fled the traffic stop has not been located. Police continue to investigate leads and are asking the public for any information that could assist in identifying and apprehending the suspect.
Community impact
Incidents like this underscore the risks faced by law‑enforcement officers while performing their duties, especially during high‑stress pursuits. The PPB has reiterated its commitment to officer safety and to maintaining public safety throughout the city.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly in neighborhoods surrounding Southeast 141st Avenue and Stark Street, where the pursuit began.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
