Man Charged With DWI In Hit-Run Crash That Injured Suffolk Cop
SHIRLEY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A Suffolk County police officer is recovering at a hospital after a drunk driver rear-ended his cruiser and took off, according to police.
Investigators said the officer was responding to a vehicle fire on the side of the eastbound Sunrise Highway near William Floyd Parkway around 3:55 a.m. when a white van smashed into the back of the officer's car.
The driver of the van, identified as Carlos Morocho, fled on foot, but was taken into custody a short time later.
Morocho, of Center Moriches, is facing a slew of charges, including leaving the scene of an accident involving physical injury, driving while intoxicated and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.
Morocho, 27, has prior arrests, including one for DWI, 1010 WINS reported. The car he drove did not have an interlock device, which added to his already long list of charges, police said.
"And also false personation. When the police officer located him, he gave a false name," Det. Sgt. James Madden said.
The officer, who has not been identified, was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital and treated for non life-threatening injuries, police said. The officer is a nine-year veteran with the department.
