A South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper took swift and decisive action Sunday afternoon to stop a wrong-way driver on Interstate 90, averting what could have been a deadly crash.
The incident unfolded near mile marker 168, where a Chevrolet Silverado was spotted traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes. Recognizing the danger, the trooper activated emergency lights and tracked the vehicle from the adjacent westbound lane, working to warn oncoming traffic and prevent a collision.
As the situation intensified, the trooper crossed the median and maneuvered in front of the Silverado in an attempt to bring it to a stop. The pickup struck the rear of the patrol car but continued driving in the wrong direction. In response, the trooper performed a precision immobilization technique (PIT), successfully forcing the vehicle into the median where it came to a halt.
The driver, whose identity remains undisclosed, was not injured. The trooper sustained minor injuries. Charges are pending, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation.
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