UPDATE: A motorist has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol (DUII) after a serious collision with a marked police SUV in Northeast Portland on Sunday night. The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m., when Zachary Kwok Lee, 47, collided head-on with the police vehicle while driving a 2008 Toyota Prius.
According to Portland Police, Lee was traveling east on Northeast Halsey Street and made a dangerous left turn onto Northeast 129th Place, striking the police SUV. Fortunately, the officer was not responding to an emergency call and managed to brake before impact, but the force of the crash still pushed the police vehicle into a nearby fence and a parked car.
Both officers inside the SUV and Lee were transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and have since been released. Lee has been booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center and faces additional charges for making a dangerous left turn and driving with an expired registration.
The scene was attended by Portland Police traffic officers, who are conducting a full investigation. Both vehicles involved in the collision were towed from the location. As of now, the two officers are recovering at home, while Lee’s legal proceedings are expected to begin shortly.
This incident raises significant concerns regarding road safety and the dangers of impaired driving. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected DUII behavior to help prevent future accidents. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
