A Close Call on the 101: Trooper Struck by Alleged Drunk Driver

There are days, aren't there, when simply doing your job can put you in harm's way, in the blink of an eye? Monday morning brought just such a stark reminder on Loop 101 near Scottsdale Road. An Arizona state trooper, out there, simply doing their duty, was suddenly—and quite violently—struck by a driver suspected of being under the influence. It’s a sobering thought, really.

The incident, as reported by the Arizona Department of Public Safety, unfolded with unsettling speed. Our trooper, whose name hasn't been widely released, was apparently outside of their patrol vehicle, attending to… well, we can only imagine the multitude of tasks that pull officers out onto the busy highway. And that's when it happened. A vehicle, allegedly driven by 32-year-old Steven R. Thompson, made impact. You can just picture the suddenness, the sheer unexpected force.

Honestly, the news could have been so much worse. Thankfully, and perhaps miraculously, the trooper sustained only minor injuries. "Minor" feels like such an understated word when you've just been hit by a car, doesn't it? But, in truth, we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief that they weren't more severely hurt. It's a testament, one could say, to sheer luck or perhaps quick reflexes.

Steven R. Thompson, the driver involved, was swiftly taken into custody. And yes, you guessed it—he's been arrested on suspicion of DUI. It raises that familiar, frustrating question: why? Why risk not only your own life but the lives of others, especially those dedicated to keeping our roads safe? This isn't just about a traffic violation; it’s about a direct threat to public safety, a reckless disregard that could have ended in tragedy.

So, as we go about our week, maybe let's spare a thought for those who stand on the edge of busy highways, protecting us. And for goodness sake, if you’re planning on getting behind the wheel, make the responsible choice. It’s really that simple. Because, for once, we'd all like to see zero incidents like this, wouldn't we?