Trenton, N.J. - Thursday morning, a Trenton police officer, K-9, and another driver sustained injuries after an accident sent both vehicles into a residential building.
Officer Perez was en route to assist a State Patrol officer after reports of a man in possession of a gun with a high-capacity magazine, when he was struck by an unlicensed driver who sped through a stop sign at the corner of Second and Bridge Street. The officer's vehicle was T-boned, sending both cars into a residential building.
Perez was hospitalized with a significant head injury, but is listed in stable condition. He has since been released. The driver is also in stable condition with minor cuts to the head. Both were transported to Capital Regional Medical Center. The K-9 was taken to NorthStar Veterinarian hospital and was treated and released after suffering a facial injury.
"Thursday's accident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day in the line of duty. Officer Perez, who was en route to assist with a high-risk situation, showed immense bravery and quick thinking. We are relieved to hear that he, the K-9, and the other driver are all in stable condition and receiving the care they need," Mayor Reed Gusciora said. "Our thoughts are with them and their families as they recover from this incident. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and will continue to support our law enforcement officers in their tireless efforts to protect us all."
Additional officers were able to respond to the reports of a man with a gun and located juveniles in possession of imitation airsoft AR-15 style rifles. The rifles were confiscated without taking anyone being taken into custody.