When a police officer turns on his or her sirens to speed to a situation, it’s generally allowed that traffic signals don’t need to be obeyed.  However, safety standards do still apply, and tragically, an 18-year-old woman paid with her life when an officer allegedly did not follow that standard, according to WSAW. 

“Sgt. Ken Tschudy was responding to a call last evening when his squad hit 18-year-old Mindy Erickson’s car, killing her on impact.

“As a parent I can only imagine the sense of loss and pain because of this tragic accident,” said Portage County Sheriff John Charewicz.

As head of the Portage County Sheriff’s Department he also can’t believe one of his own is under investigation for a crash that killed an 18-year-old girl.

The Stevens Point Police Department is looking into the accident that killed her.

They say Sgt. Ken Tschudy went through a red light with his lights and sirens before crashing into Erickson’s car.

“You’re allowed to disregard the traffic light, but you have to do it with safety,” said Stevens Point Police Chief Jeff Morris.

Detectives are trying to figure out if Sergeant Tschudy did that.

The State Patrol is helping with the investigation and hopes to determine whether Tschudy slowed down and cautiously approached the intersection of Church and Nebel, or if he just sped through it.

Witnesses say they never saw him brake.”

Obviously, the officer could face several forms of liability if it’s found that the proper duty of care was not exercised.  If you have been injured in an auto accident, contact the Stevens Point personal injury lawyers at Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® today to schedule a free initial consultation.

The Stevens Point Personal Injury Attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ®, P.C. have created this blog to keep you up to date on pertinent information in the legal world and/or news stories that have legal ramifications. As always, if you or a family member have been injured call 715-345-0004 for a free consultation.