Manhunt after policeman injured in shocking hit and run
A senior constable has undergone surgery after he was seriously injured during a ‘shocking’ hit and run, as police hunt the runaway driver.
State Traffic Commander, Mike Bell said the officer is in “good spirits” despite suffering serious leg injuries and head wounds.
Police were conducting traffic duties around 6:10 pm on Holcombe Road in Warnbro, south of Perth. The officer apparently attempted to stop a speeding motorcycle.
“The traffic officer has stepped out on the road to stop the motorcycle and has indicated that,” Commander Bell said.
“The motorcycle has moved further to the right and made his intentions clear that he was not prepared to stop.”
“The officer and the motorcycle have come into contact. The officer was knocked to the ground.”
Commander Bell said the motorcyclist continued to drive on the incorrect side of the road and did not stop. The injured officer was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment, where he on Thursday underwent surgery to his leg.
Police are hunting a “very distinctive motorcycle” and are calling on the public for information.
“I have no doubt some members of the public will know this bike,” Commander Bell said.
“It would appear to be a Caucasian male with a dark helmet, he was wearing shorts and had a black backpack on.”
Commander Bell said police had received complaints about traffic behavior in the area.
Nola Holden has lived in the area for 42 years and said hearing sirens was a common occurrence.
“They had been doing speed checks on our streets because it’s shocking here for speeding,” she said. Personal care worker Marcy Dougan was driving home from work when she came across the scene, stopping to help and give first aid.
“He had a nasty gash on the back of the head .... there was an open wound on the leg,” she said.
“He was in a bit of shock, I just kept reassuring him and keeping him conscious.”
Ms Dougan said she immediately jumped into action to help, claiming she’d do it again without thinking.
“You don’t go to work thinking that will happen ... they’re out to protect us, it’s the least I can do,” she said.
Major Crash officers are working to determine the cause of the collision and WorkSafe will launch a separate investigation.
Commander Bell said traffic work was a “dangerous” job.
Anyone with information regarding the crash, or who recognises the motorcycle and/or rider pictured is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.
Image: 7 News