Drunken Driver Crashes Into, Injures Hamden Police Officer: PD

HAMDEN, CT — A Hamden police officer suffered back and shoulder injuries Tuesday night after the officer's cruiser was slammed into by a drunken driver on Mix Avenue, according to authorities.

The incident occurred at about 11:55 p.m. when the officer, whose identity was not disclosed, was in the midst of searching for a suspect in a domestic violence case on Mix Avenue.

"The officer’s police vehicle was struck by a vehicle that was operated by Michael Uihlein," officials said in a statement. "Uihlein, who was traveling eastbound on Benham Street, was traveling too fast for road conditions. The officer was transported to Yale-New Haven Hospital with a back and shoulder injury."

An investigation determined that Uihlein was intoxicated, police said, and he was arrested and transported to police headquarters. The investigation was conducted by Sgt. Michael Sigmon and Officer Robert Villano.

Uihlein, 34, of Main Street in Hamden, was charged with driving under the influence and improper passing.

He is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Dec. 27.