SEATTLE — A police officer with the city of Milton, just east of Tacoma, was hospitalized with serious injuries Wednesday while trying to take a suspect into custody for an outstanding drug warrant.
When the suspect fled in his car, Officer Erik Haney was dragged through a parking lot and then run over. He suffered injuries to both legs and hands, the Milton Police Department said.
Haney, who has been with the Milton Police Department for five years, was taken to a nearby hospital where he underwent surgery.
Wednesday evening, Milton Mayor Shanna Styron Sherrell gave an update on the Police Department Facebook page, stating that Haney was “out of surgery, in good condition and is expected to make a full recovery.”
The incident happened near the 400 block of Meridian Ave. East close to the Pierce/King County line.
The suspect, who was known to the Milton Police from previous encounters, drove north and was pursued by the Kent Police Department.
The suspect was subsequently run off the road, arrested and booked into Pierce County Jail on charges including felony assault of a police officer and resisting arrest.
Officer Jacob Wilcox rendered lifesaving aid to his partner Haney until East Pierce Fire and Rescue paramedics arrived, according to the department.
In a statement, Milton Police Chief Tony Hernandez commended the “courage and dedication” of both Haney and Wilcox and thanked surrounding law enforcement agencies for their quick response both in aiding Haney and apprehending the suspect.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Haney and his family,” Hernandez stated. “This incident underscores the bravery of our officers … and their willingness to confront danger to protect and serve our community.”
