Off-duty Gary firefighter charged with OWI in hit-and-run crash that injured Indiana state trooper
GARY, Ind. (WLS) -- An off-duty Gary firefighter has been charged with operating while intoxicated after allegedly crashing into an Indiana State Police trooper's vehicle, officials said Monday.
The trooper was injured about midnight Monday on southbound Interstate 65 at the westbound Interstate 80 interchange, police said.
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His fully marked squad car was hit by a dark-colored SUV, police said.
The trooper, who had his emergency lights activated, was blocking traffic for an active construction zone, police said. He suffered non-life threatening injuries, and was taken by Gary fire crews to Northlake Methodist Hospital.
The SUV that hit him kept driving, police said.
Shortly after the crash, troopers found a car matching the suspect vehicle's description driving west on I-80 with significant front-end damage.
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The car did not step, leading troopers through an active construction zone, where workers had to move out of the way to avoid being hit, police said.
The vehicle continued onto Broadway in Gary and then west on 25th Avenue, disregarding traffic signals and nearly causing another crash, police said.
The SUV stopped near the Gary Fire Department on 25th Avenue and Jefferson Street.
The driver, an off-duty Gary firefighter, was identified as Michael D. Rodriguez, 47, of Gary, police said.
Police said Rodriguez showed signs of alcohol impairment and admitted to drinking before driving.
Police said there were also open containers in the car.
Rodriguez was taken to Lake County Jail and charged with reckless driving in a construction zone while intoxicated, leaving the scene of a serious bodily injury crash, OWI causing injury and more.
Rodriguez has been placed on leave without pay, the Gary Fire Department said.
Gary Fire Chief Larry Tillman said in a statement, "First and foremost, I am grateful to hear the State Trooper is doing well, and I pray for a speedy recovery. The Gary Fire Department does not tolerate inappropriate behavior, and our members are held to a high standard both on and off the clock. The individual will be placed on leave without pay, consistent with statutory requirements, pending the investigation and determination of next steps. As first responders, incidents involving our public safety partners hit closer to home, and we must ensure the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others.
"The Gary Fire Department remains committed to maintaining the trust of the community it serves. Every day, the men and women of the department respond to emergencies, provide lifesaving care, and work tirelessly to protect residents and visitors throughout the City of Gary. While this incident involves an individual employee, it does not diminish the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by the overwhelming majority of the department's personnel.
"Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, the City and the Gary Fire Department will not comment further on the specific allegations at this time. Additional information, if appropriate, will be provided as it becomes available through the investigative process.
"The City of Gary extends its support and well wishes to the involved Indiana State Trooper and recognizes the difficult and dangerous work performed daily by law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and all first responders."
