Texas assistant fire chief struck, police sergeant dragged by alleged drunk driver

By Laura French

BASTROP, Texas — A Texas assistant fire chief was struck and a police sergeant was dragged by a suspected drunk driver at a crash scene last week, officials say. 

Bastrop police said first responders were investigating an earlier crash when another vehicle suddenly entered the scene, according to the Austin American-Statesman. The vehicle struck an emergency vehicle while going in reverse, then went forward and struck Bastrop Assistant Fire Chief Eric DeArmitt, causing serious injuries, officials said. 

Bastrop Police Sgt. Charles Sanford attempted to take control of the vehicle through the driver's side window, and was dragged about 50 yards while hanging out of the window, sustaining minor injuries, according to police. 

Both injured first responders were transported to the hospital and have since been treated and released; authorities said DeArmitt's serious injuries will require ongoing care.

The driver of the vehicle that injured the first responders was identified by police as Kenneth Crawford, 53. He has been charged with intoxication assault causing serious bodily injury of emergency service personnel and aggravated assault against a public servant. His bail was set at $200,000.