Chelmsford Driver Nearly Runs Over Trooper: Police

NASHUA, NH — A New Hampshire state trooper is lucky to be alive after authorities said a Chelmsford driver clipped him while he was standing on the Everett Turnpike for a construction detail. Trooper Jeffrey Ardini was not hurt, as the vehicle struck the equipment on his utility belt, police said.

The incident happened Thursday at about 3:45 p.m. Ardini was standing on the Exit 1 ramp on the southbound side of the highway when John Hunt, 57, of Chelmsford — driving a a black Volkswagen Beetle — approached, police said.

"(Ardini) attempted to stop (Hunt)," State police Sgt. Steve Callinan said in a statement. "Hunt did not stop for the trooper but rather accelerated up the ramp causing Trooper Ardini to jump out of the way. As Hunt passed, his vehicle brushed up against Trooper Ardini, impacting the equipment on his duty belt."

Hunt was charged with negligent driving and disobeying a police officer. Police said Hunt has "disabilities" that affected his ability to drive safe. Police said they requested a review of Hunt's driving privileges.

Photo: Patch/File