A traffic incident involving an MPD member led to a fatal outcome this past weekend, as reported by the Metropolitan Police Department. According to information released on their website, the collision happened when a motorcycle collided with a police cruiser at a Northwest intersection.
Details of the incident, which occurred last Saturday, describe a motorcycle slamming into the side of an MPD cruiser at approximately 4:18 a.m. The cruiser, traveling on the 1200 block of Columbia Road Northwest with a green light, was driven by an on-duty commander. Running against a solid red traffic signal, the unregistered motorcycle hit the cruiser's driver's side at high speed.
The motorcycle's adult male operator was ejected upon impact and succumbed to his injuries after DC Fire and EMS responded to the call made by the uninjured MPD member. The name of the deceased has not been disclosed, as detectives are actively working to confirm the individual’s identity. Presently, the involved MPD member has been put on administrative leave, which is standard practice in such situations.
Investigations are currently underway by the MPD's Major Crash Investigations Unit and Internal Affairs Division to shed more clarity on the events of the crash. Notably, the police cruiser was not en route to an emergency and had no emergency equipment activated during the time of the collision. Body worn cameras did not capture the incident, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are soliciting help from anyone who may have relevant knowledge about the incident. They urge witnesses or individuals with information to reach out by calling the police at (202) 727-9099 or transmitting tips through the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.
