LUFKIN, Texas — A Lufkin police officer was hit by a vehicle while working a minor accident off Timberland Drive, Saturday afternoon.
The officer is identified as Seth Thompson, 28.
According to Lufkin Police Department, the initial minor accident occurred around 12:30 p.m. The vehicles involved pulled into the Cox Muffler parking lot.
Thompson was out of his marked patrol unit, wearing emergency lights, while he was investigating the initial crash in the parking lot. He was hit by a northbound Toyota SUV around 12:53 p.m.
The vehicle drove off the roadway to the left and struck the rear of the police vehicle. The collision caused the police vehicle to strike officer Thompson. He was conscious after the accident and was transported by helicopter to UT Tyler Health.
Officer Thompson's colleague, Jessica Pebsworth said, "he's got a knee injury, a broken hip which will likely have surgery on ... A lot of road rash, cuts and bruises to his face."
Despite these injuries Thompson is in stable condition, talking to the doctors and his family.
Officer Thompson posted on facebook thanking his family and community for the love and support.
The driver of the Toyota is identified as 40-year-old Nakishia Samuels from Lufkin. Samuels was transported to CHI st. Luke's Hospital in Lufkin for treatment.
Timberland Drive from South First Street to Tulane Drive is currently shut down while Department of Public Safety investigates the scene of Officer Thompson's accident.
Traffic is being rerouted down Trulane Drive. With Cinco de Mayo festivities, happening at Kiwani's park, Lukfin PD recommends avoiding the area if possible.
