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A Canajoharie man, Ryan Hodge, has been charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) after crashing into a Montgomery County Sheriff's patrol car late Sunday night (March 9). The incident occurred on Clinton Road in Canajoharie while deputies were assisting the Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department at an active fire scene.
According to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Hodge, 31, was traveling northbound when he failed to move over for emergency vehicles, as required by New York law. His truck collided with a marked patrol car that had its emergency lights activated, causing significant damage. Fortunately, the deputy was outside and away from the patrol car at the time, and no injuries were reported.
Additional deputies arrived on the scene to conduct a crash investigation, which determined that Hodge was operating the vehicle while intoxicated. He was charged with DWI and other traffic violations. Hodge was processed at the sheriff's office and released with an appearance ticket and uniform traffic tickets. He is scheduled to appear in Canajoharie Town Court at a later date.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has issued a reminder for drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights to ensure the safety of first responders and the public.