Drunk Driver Caused Crash That Flipped Police SUV In Manassas: Cops

MANASSAS, VA — A drunk driver ran a red light in Manassas on Sunday and caused a crash with a police SUV, the Prince William County Police Department said. The collision caused the SUV to roll onto its side.

Minor injuries were reported from the crash, according to the police report.

The intoxicated driver, who police have not identified by name, was charged with one count of driving under the influence.

The crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday at the intersection of Wellington Road and Prince William Parkway. Investigators said the Prince William County police SUV had a green light and was travelling through the intersection.

The other driver sped through their red light on Wellington Road and entered the intersection in front of the police SUV, according to authorities.

"The officer, traveling at speed for the Parkway, had seconds to react and attempted to avoid the collision; however, the front of the cruiser impacted the back panel of the pickup," the police department wrote on Facebook. "The impact and subsequent maneuvering post-crash caused the police SUV to overturn."

The other driver was taken into custody at the scene of the crash.

Virginia's drunken driving laws are among the harshest in the nation, the DMV said. If a driver is convicted for a first DUI offense, the minimum punishment includes a $250 fine and a revocation of the driver's license for one year. A DUI conviction can also require the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Across the country, 28 people die in drunken driving crashes every day, according to the DMV.

Resources are available for people who are struggling with addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24/7 hotline that can help people find resources and get the help they need.