A state trooper’s car was struck early this morning. According to police, the trooper was investigating an accident on northbound I-97 at Benfield Boulevard in Millersville when a Honda struck the rear of the patrol car causing it to catch fire. The trooper and a “ride along” passenger had to climb out of the windows to safety.
The trooper, his passenger and the driver of the Honda were all taken to Shock Trauma in Baltimore. All are expected to survive.
Maryland state police believe that alcohol was a factor and charges are pending against Renee Dillon, the driver of the Honda.
There is absolutely no effective enforcement of traffic laws on that stretch of I-97 or to the south on Route 3. When I called 911 to report an 18-wheeler going approximately 100 mph the 911 dispatcher chuckled and said “We’ll keep an eye out for him.” She didn’t even ask if he was north or south bound. I have talked to tow truck drivers who said they fear for their lives doing calls in that area without police backup because of the speeding and aggressive driving. Maybe it will wake the state police up since this incident involved one of their own.