A Garden Grove police officer is fighting for life after being struck by a vehicle while pursuing a suspect on foot late Sunday night, authorities confirmed. The incident has prompted a multi-agency investigation and temporarily shut down a major roadway in the city.
The collision occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. on January 3 near the intersection of Garden Grove Boulevard and Haster Street. Police officials said officers were responding to a call reporting a suspicious person in the area when one individual attempted to flee on foot upon contact with law enforcement.
During the pursuit, the officer entered the roadway and was hit by a passing vehicle that was not involved in the initial police response. Emergency medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene, and the injured officer was rushed to a nearby hospital with severe injuries. As of Monday, the officer remained in critical condition.
The identity of the officer has not been released, in accordance with department policy and out of respect for the officer’s family. Garden Grove Police officials stated that colleagues and city leadership are closely monitoring the officer’s condition and providing support to loved ones during this difficult time.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the vehicle involved stopped at the scene and has been fully cooperative with investigators. No arrests related to the collision have been announced, and officials have not indicated whether charges will be filed. The circumstances surrounding the collision, including speed, visibility, and traffic conditions, are currently under review.
The suspect who initially fled from officers was apprehended a short distance from the scene by other responding units. Police have not released details regarding the suspect’s identity or the reason for the original suspicious person call, citing the ongoing investigation.
As is standard protocol in incidents involving serious injuries to law enforcement personnel, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department has assumed responsibility for the investigation. Their role includes conducting an independent review of the events leading up to the collision, analyzing evidence from the scene, and interviewing witnesses.
The investigation led to the overnight closure of Garden Grove Boulevard between Haster Street and Beach Boulevard, causing traffic disruptions in the area. The road was reopened several hours later once investigators completed their initial work and cleared debris from the roadway.
In a public statement, the Garden Grove Police Department expressed deep concern for the injured officer and gratitude for the quick response from emergency personnel. The department also thanked community members for their support and patience during the road closure.
“This is a sobering reminder of the dangers officers face every day while serving the community,” the statement read. “Our thoughts are with our injured colleague and their family.”
City officials echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of driver awareness, particularly during active police activity and nighttime conditions. Law enforcement agencies often remind motorists to remain alert and cautious when approaching areas with emergency responders present.
The investigation remains active, and authorities say additional information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have relevant information has been encouraged to contact investigators.
As the Garden Grove community awaits updates on the officer’s condition, messages of support have continued to circulate, highlighting the strong bond between residents and local law enforcement during moments of crisis.
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