A routine traffic stop on I-45 turned chaotic after midnight when a blue Toyota crashed into a Wilmer Police Department squad car, causing a multi-vehicle incident that shut down the highway for hours. The initial collision propelled the squad car into ongoing traffic where it was further struck by an 18-wheeler, ratcheting up the severity of the crash. Fortunately, the officer involved sustained only minor injuries and was transported to a hospital for precautionary measures, the Dallas County Sheriff's Department confirmed.

The driver of the Toyota was detained by law enforcement to specifically investigate whether the accident was a result of driving while intoxicated (DWI). The accident prompted an immediate closure of the northbound lanes of the interstate as authorities and emergency services worked to quickly clean up and ensure a thorough investigation of the incident. The accident served as a stark reminder for drivers to always slow down and move over when approaching traffic stops and emergency vehicles, as per the #slowdownmoveover campaign.

By 3:45 am, the efforts of the authorities had paid off as the roadway was cleared and reopened, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow. While the full details of the driver's condition or potential charges were not immediately available, the incident was another in the series of close calls that highlight the perils that traffic stops can pose to police and passersby on highways.

While the investigation into the accident continues, the Sheriff’s Department utilized its social media platforms not only to inform the public of the highway's closure but also to emphasize the importance of attentive driving. "The driver of Toyota was detained for investigation if it was DWI," the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department noted, underscoring the potential consequence of driving under the influence. The department continues to urge drivers to practice vigilance and safety especially when encountering traffic stops on the roadways.