Opelika Police Officer injured after cruiser struck on I-85
An Opelika Police Officer is receiving treatment at a nearby hospital after his patrol vehicle was struck on I-85 Tuesday morning.
The officer was seated in his patrol Tahoe awaiting a tow truck to respond to the scene of a single vehicle crash along I-85 near mile marker 62, during the morning hours of October 21, 2025.
Twenty minutes after the initial reported crash, a Tesla struck the patrol Tahoe the responding officer was seated in.
The officer became entrapped inside the vehicle. Opelika Fire and Rescue personnel quickly responded, extricated the officer, and provided medical aid before transporting him to Piedmont Columbus Regional in Columbus, Georgia, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the Tesla was also transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional with non-life-threatening injuries.
“This incident serves as an important reminder of the dangers faced by first responders and roadway workers every day,” police said. “Please remain alert for emergency lights, slow down, and move over when approaching vehicles stopped on the roadside. Your attentiveness can save lives.”
The crash remains under investigation.
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