Charleston, West Virginia – On Monday afternoon, a Charleston police cruiser was involved in a rear‑end collision on the southbound lanes of Interstate 77. The incident occurred while an officer had a vehicle pulled over on the shoulder for a routine traffic stop.
Details of the crash
According to the Charleston Police Department, the cruiser was stationary when another motorist failed to stop in time and struck the rear of the police vehicle. The officer inside the cruiser was not injured in the impact. The driver of the other vehicle, whose identity has not been released, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. No further information about that person’s condition has been made public.
Police response and safety reminder
Police officials responded quickly to the scene, securing the area and directing traffic while emergency crews assessed the damage. The department emphasized that the officer’s safety protocols and the swift actions of first responders prevented any serious injuries.
Motorists traveling through the area were asked to exercise extra caution while crews cleared the crash site. The department reminded drivers that stopping on the shoulder for a police traffic stop is a routine safety measure that protects both officers and the traveling public.
Community impact
While the crash caused temporary delays on a major interstate corridor, the prompt clearance work helped restore normal traffic flow within a short period. Local residents were encouraged to stay informed through official traffic updates and to allow extra travel time when navigating the southbound I‑77 corridor.
Charleston police continue to prioritize the safety of both officers and citizens on the roadways. The department’s ongoing commitment to vigilant traffic enforcement helps keep the community’s highways safe and orderly.
Looking ahead
The investigation into the cause of the collision remains open. Police will review dash‑cam footage and gather witness statements to determine whether any traffic violations contributed to the crash. The department will release any additional findings as they become available.
In the meantime, the Charleston Police Department urges all drivers to remain attentive, obey traffic signals, and respect law‑enforcement officers conducting traffic stops. These simple actions protect lives and keep West Virginia’s roadways running smoothly.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
