PALMETTO, Fla. – Dramatic dashcam footage from a Florida Highway Patrol SUV shows the moment a trooper put herself in harm’s way in order to protect thousands of runners from a suspected DUI driver who plowed through a series of roadblocks.
FHP said 52-year-old Kristen Kay Watts of Sarasota slammed into Master Trooper Toni Schuck’s SUV on Sunday morning, leaving Schuck, 47, with serious injuries, after ignoring a series of roadblocks in place for the annual Skyway 10K.
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Investigators said Watts was driving in a BMW while intoxicated and was arrested on suspicion of DUI. They said she was speeding on Interstate 275 while the race was underway around 8:45 a.m. Sunday. Troopers said she sped toward the road closure at U.S. Highway 41, but ignored the detour set up to direct drivers away from the race.Troopers said Watts drove through traffic cones and weaved around barricades, and passed troopers guarding the toll plaza. Troopers stationed at the south rest area were alerted to the oncoming vehicle.
“This driver had blown past several check points, going around traffic cones, going around other officers and had engaged in high speeds,” said Watson.
I don’t think I need to comment much about this other than congratulate Trooper Schuck for her life-saving action. That was some amazing feat of service.
Duty. Honor.
Ma’am (Officer), you win.