Paramedics heading to an emergency in central California needed to be taken to the hospital themselves after being hit by a suspected drunk driver over the weekend, police said.
An AMR ambulance was traveling eastbound on East Boronda Road in Salinas with emergency lights and sirens on when it was struck by a westbound Chevy Cruze, the Salinas Police Department said in a news release. According to the release, the investigation revealed that Cruz’s driver, 26-year-old Armando Ortiz Mendoza, crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic and caused the crash.
Mendoza and two emergency medical professionals inside the ambulance were injured and taken to local hospitals, police said.
Police said a Breathalyzer test showed Mendoza’s blood alcohol content was .20%, more than twice the legal limit.
According to the police, a can of beer was found at the spot. Mendoza was booked into jail on suspicion of felony DUI.
“Driving while intoxicated is not a mistake without consequences. In this case, two emergency medical professionals were injured while trying to help someone else,” police said in a statement. “Choose the Safe Option!!! Never drive recklessly. Plan ahead, use rideshare, call a friend, or stay where you are. One decision can change lives in an instant.”
