(NBC6) — Florida Highway Patrol trooper is recovering in the hospital Sunday after being struck by a drunk driver, police say.
Trooper Daniel A. Cruz, 29, was struck by a vehicle at around 1:04 a.m. while investigating a crash along Okeechobee Road near the Palmetto Expressway’s South exit ramp.
While attempting to clear the vehicles involved in the crash from the roadway, Cruz was struck by a vehicle traveling north on Okeechobee Road.
Cruz was airlifted to Ryder Trauma Center and will need to undergo reconstructive surgery. Cruz has a 4-month old son and is expected to be out of work for at least 6 months.
John Bencosme, 26, is charged with driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury and charges of DUI with property damage.
Investigators say Bencosme was driving under the influence of alcohol and has been arrested.