Drunk driving responsible for cop’s death

A police officer in New York is facing criminal charges for the death of one of his co-workers. The two were driving home from the shooting range when they were involved in a single-vehicle car accident. Law enforcement officials believe that drunk driving contributed to this tragic event.

This crash actually happened nearly a year ago on Feb. 1, 2016. The officer — a 33-year-old male — and a rookie cop were riding in the same vehicle on their way back from the NYPD firing range when the driver lost control, hit a tree causing the car to flip and catch fire. The driver was pulled from the car by other officers also driving back from the shooting range. His female passenger — who had only been with the department for 10 months — died at the scene.

According to reports, the driver had a blood alcohol level of .12. He suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was still in a wheelchair when he recently entered a plea of not guilty to the manslaughter charges filed against him. He has been released on bail and criminal proceedings are still pending.

As this case drags out slowly in criminal court, as they often do, the victim’s surviving family members may continue to feel little relief. Thankfully, they do not have to wait until criminal proceedings are complete to seek compensation for their losses. Following a drunk driving accident, victims or — in the event of fatality — their loved ones may pursue legal actions in a New York civil court against all those believed responsible for their losses. If litigation proves successful, a monetary judgment for all recoverable damages may be awarded.

Source: New York Daily News, “NYPD sergeant who overturned car in high-speed Bronx crash charged in death of cop“, Thomas Tracy, Jan. 5, 2018