SCPD Officer Critically Injured in Hit And Run Incident

Suffolk County Police Vehicular Crimes Unit detectives are investigating an incident that critically injured a police officer in Huntington this afternoon.

Second Precinct Crime Section Officers Nicholas Guerrero and Officer Heriberto Lugo initiated a vehicle stop on Partridge Lane in Huntington at approximately 1:35 p.m. While attempting to speak to the occupants, Officer Guerrero and Officer Lugo were struck by the vehicle which then fled the scene.  A short distance away, the driver of the vehicle hit another vehicle and fled. At approximately 1:50 p.m., the suspect forcibly stole a vehicle from a woman on Dovecote Lane in Commack. A broadcast notification was made and the suspects were located and arrested inside the Target, located at 160 North Research Place, Central Islip.

Officer Guerrero, 36, who has been with the department four years, was transported via Suffolk County Police helicopter to Stony Brook University Hospital.  He was listed in critical condition with a very serious head injury. Officer Guerrero is being monitored in the hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit.  Officer Lugo was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was treated and released.

“Officer Guerrero is a very hardworking, dedicated, well-respected member of police department,” Suffolk County Police Commissioner Edward Webber said. “He joined the SCPD in 2010 and because of his excellent interviewing skills, investigative abilities and strong ability to interact well with the public, he was assigned to the Second Precinct Crime Section after only four years.  He is a true professional. Our thoughts are with him and his family and we pray for his full recovery.”

“Each and every day the brave men and women of the Suffolk County Police Department risk their own wellbeing to protect the residents of this County,” Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said. “Officer Guerrero is a true public servant whose bravery, valor and devotion to the job have earned him the highest respect from his superiors and fellow officers alike.  It is a travesty anytime a police officer is hurt in the line of duty. Suffolk County’s thoughts and prayers are with Officer Guerrero and his family.”

The investigation is continuing.  Further details will be forthcoming.