HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — A Virginia State Police officer was reportedly dragged by a vehicle along Interstate 295.
At 4:08 p.m. on Friday, Dec 2., a Virginia State Police Trooper pulled over a 2021 Mazda CX-30 SUV for speeding on I-295 southbound in Henrico County. According to police, the suspect became combative during the stop. The suspect started to drive off, but the trooper became caught in the passenger side door.
The trooper was dragged for three miles as the suspect drove up to 115 mph down I-295 southbound.
The suspect hit two tractor-trailers before crashing near the Creighton Road exit of I-295, according to police. The suspect then ran away from the vehicle.
After a search, the suspect was arrested at 6:18 p.m. near Cold Harbor Road. The suspect is described as a Black male around 38 years old. His identity has not been released.
A handgun was also recovered from inside the SUV, according to police.
Multiple charges are pending at this time.
The state trooper reportedly received minor cuts and bruises and is being treated.
“He’s very lucky to not have been injured today,” said VSP spokesperson Sgt. Jessica Shehan. “It’s always upsetting when one of our own does get potentially harmed.”
At one point, VDOT reported that drivers in the area were experiencing an approximately two-mile-long backup. The south center lane, right lane, right shoulder and the Creighton Road exit have all been closed.
This is a developing story, check back with 8News for updates.
