Suspected Impaired Driver Sideswipes NLVPD Vehicle – A Close Call on the Interstate
Late Thursday night, a North Las Vegas Police Department officer narrowly escaped harm when a suspected impaired driver carelessly sideswiped his parked vehicle on the southbound lanes of Interstate 15 near Cheyenne Avenue. The incident, which occurred around 8:45 p.m., serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving on our roadways.
The suspect, identified as 52-year-old Yamila Perdomo-Hernandez, was swiftly taken into custody and booked into the North Las Vegas Community Correctional Center on charges of DUI and failure to maintain a lane of travel. The North Las Vegas Police Department wasted no time in addressing the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the need for vigilance and responsibility behind the wheel.
Officer’s Close Call and Swift Response
The officer in question was on routine patrol when he encountered a two-vehicle crash on the busy highway. Showing poise and quick thinking, he directed both vehicles involved in the initial collision to the shoulder of the freeway, ensuring the safety of those involved. Remaining at the scene, the officer awaited the arrival of the Nevada State Police to assist with the situation.
It was during this critical moment that the unforeseen occurred. As the officer was engaged in conversation with the drivers affected by the initial crash, a gray Volkswagen sedan, driven by Perdomo-Hernandez, veered off course and sideswiped the patrol vehicle. Fortunately, due to the officer’s positioning outside of his vehicle, he was unharmed in the incident. The swift and coordinated response of law enforcement personnel played a pivotal role in preventing a potentially disastrous outcome.
Impaired Driving – A Grave Threat on Our Highways
The alarming incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with impaired driving. Whether due to alcohol, drugs, or other substances, impaired motorists pose a grave threat to themselves and others on the road. In this case, the consequences could have been catastrophic if not for the quick reflexes and professionalism displayed by law enforcement officers on the scene.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities in the United States. In 2020 alone, an estimated 10,142 people lost their lives in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers. These sobering statistics underscore the urgent need for continued education, enforcement, and prevention efforts to combat this pervasive issue.
Community Response and Call to Action
In the wake of this harrowing incident, the community at large is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of impaired driving to local law enforcement authorities. By working together and staying proactive, we can help prevent tragedies on our roadways and ensure the safety of all who travel them.
Tony Garcia, spokesperson for the North Las Vegas Police Department, reiterated the importance of community engagement in combating impaired driving. “We rely on the vigilance and cooperation of our residents to help us keep our streets safe,” Garcia stated. “If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, do not hesitate to report it immediately. Your actions could save lives.”
As we reflect on the events of that fateful night on Interstate 15, let us recommit ourselves to promoting responsible driving habits and fostering a culture of safety on our roads. Together, we can make a difference and protect our communities from the devastating impact of impaired driving.
In conclusion, the incident involving the suspected impaired driver and the NLVPD officer serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers we face on our roadways. It underscores the critical need for ongoing education, enforcement, and community involvement in combating impaired driving. Let us all do our part to ensure the safety of our streets and highways, working together to prevent tragedies and save lives.
