Drunk Driver Slams into SAPD Patrol Vehicles and Injures Officer

A San Angelo Police officer responding to a civil disturbance call went to the hospital this morning after a drunk driver crashed into a vehicle parked behind him.

Sgt. Cade Solsbery, public information officer for SAPD, said, at 11:16 a.m., two officers were on a civil disturbance call in the 1000 Block of E. 14^th St. The officer was in his vehicle typing some comments in the call notes on his computer when the crash occurred.

“While he was in that vehicle, a second patrol car was parked behind him,” explained Solsbery. “A male subject driving a 2009 Toyota Corolla was eastbound on 14^th Street, and crashed into the back of the patrol Tahoe that was parked on the street. That caused the Tahoe to push into the patrol Charger that was parked in front of it.”

Solsbery said the officer in the Charger did receive non-incapacitating injuries, and was transported to Community Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Rick Waddell, 57, and was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.

“Judging from the damage, he wasn’t going at an excessive rate of speed when the crash occurred,” said Solsbery.

Solsbery added that they’re waiting to hear back about the officer’s condition, but they don’t expect him to have any serious injuries. The officer’s name will not be released at this time.

Update 4:45 p.m.

In a press release this afternoon, Officer Tracy Gonzalez said the officer involved in the crash today was 25 years old, and has been with the department for two and a half years. The officer has been released from the hospital. Additionally, more details were provided on Waddell's arrest.

"When Waddell exited his vehicle, he showed signs of intoxication. Waddell was unable to perform standardized field sobriety tests due to his inability to maintain his balance," said Officer Gonzalez. "Detectives obtained a Search Warrant for a blood specimen. At the conclusion of the blood draw, Waddell was transported to the Tom Green County Jail."