GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A Grand Rapids Fire Department (GRFD) vehicle was completely destroyed after a person driving an SUV hit it on US-131 early Tuesday morning.
GFRD said the incident happened around 1:32 a.m. on Tuesday. A person driving an SUV crashed into a GFRD utility vehicle with an attenuator trailer. The utility vehicle is used to block traffic during highway operations.
The driver of the SUV was arrested on suspicion of operating while intoxicated (OWI).
The driver of the GRFD vehicle was not injured in the crash. GFRD did not say whether the driver of the SUV was injured in the incident.
"This incident could have ended in tragedy," said Jack Johnson, Deputy Fire Chief of the Grand Rapids Fire Department. "Our attenuator vehicle is a crucial safety device, specifically designed to absorb impacts and protect our personnel and equipment. While we're relieved no one was seriously injured, this serves as a sobering reminder of the risks our fire crews face daily."
GFRD is urging drivers to use extreme caution when approaching accident scenes and emergency vehicles. The fire department is also reminding drivers to:
- Slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions, especially in areas where first responders are working.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
