A Florida Sheriff’s deputy was fatally struck by a passing car while conducting a traffic stop Tuesday night.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office said that 30-year-old Cassandra Smith was arrested in connection with the incident and charged with DUI manslaughter.
The unidentified 23-year-old deputy was struck at around 9 p.m. on Interstate 75, police said.
Smith was driving a Jeep on the interstate when she lost control of the vehicle and hit the deputy’s vehicle which then crashed into him.
The driver of a Honda involved in the traffic stop also sustained injuries; The deputy was pronounced dead at a Punta Gorda hospital.
“Please pray for the family, friends, and all his law enforcement family who stand behind him,” the department said.