Tragic End After Police Car Ramming Incident in Manteca

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In a shocking series of events early Wednesday morning, a man was fatally struck by a truck on Highway 120 in Manteca after intentionally ramming his car into a police patrol vehicle, authorities reported.

The situation began around 2:16 a.m. when a Manteca Police officer noticed a car weaving behind him on South Main Street near Highway 120. Thinking the driver might need help, the officer pulled over. The driver, a man in his 30s, also stopped and got out of his car. However, his erratic behavior raised red flags, prompting the officer to keep his distance and call for backup.

Moments later, the man returned to his car, and the officer got back into his patrol vehicle. Without warning, the man accelerated and crashed into the rear of the patrol car with enough force to deploy its airbags and jam the driver’s door shut. Fortunately, the officer was unharmed but was later taken to the hospital as a precaution.

"The driver immediately rammed the patrol car, causing major damage," explained Sgt. Steve Beermann of the Manteca Police Department. "All the airbags went off, and the officer was unable to get out of the car."

As backup arrived, the man was found standing on the highway sign attached to the Main Street overpass. Officers attempted to communicate with him, but his speech was rapid and nonsensical. After a tense few minutes, the man jumped from the overpass into the westbound lanes of Highway 120, where he was struck by an oncoming pickup truck. The driver of the truck stopped immediately and cooperated with the investigation.

Residents were left shaken by the incident. "The police officer's just out trying to do his job and protect us," said Manteca resident Anthony Liberato. "It's just very sad for everyone involved."

The California Highway Patrol is investigating the tragic event. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Manteca Police Department at 209-456-8101.

Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation.

Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.

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