A Lawrence police officer was seriously hurt Tuesday night when a vehicle dragged him about two blocks along East Haverhill Street, Mayor Brian DePeña said. The officer suffered several broken ribs and was first treated at a Lawrence hospital, then airlifted to a Boston hospital for further evaluation.
What Officials Say
Mayor DePeña told Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra that early details point to the officer becoming trapped against the vehicle and dragged as medics later checked him for possible internal injuries and head trauma, according to NBC Boston. The station also reports that officers discovered the driver had a revoked license and that a passenger in the vehicle was wanted on two active warrants.
Police Account of the Arrest
The Lawrence Police Department said in a press release that the situation spiraled when officers began taking the operator into custody and the passenger abruptly climbed into the driver’s seat in what appeared to be an attempt to flee, according to NBC Boston. As the patrolman tried to stop the getaway, he became entangled with the vehicle and was dragged for roughly two blocks before he was finally freed.
Officer Safety and Training
Training reviews note that struggles around vehicles are among the most dangerous situations officers encounter and that agencies are putting more emphasis on realistic scenarios and clear commands to disengage before someone gets pulled into traffic, according to an analysis by Police1. The analysis recommends practicing close-quarters and vehicle-based encounters so officers can better judge when to hold on and when to let go to protect themselves.
What Happens Next
Authorities have not publicly identified the injured officer or the people in the vehicle. Officials also have not released additional information about charges or the status of any arrests as the investigation continues. The department says the case remains under active review and that confirmed updates will be shared when they are available.
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