Mercer Cop, K9 Injured After Unlicensed Driver Speeds Through Stop Sign

MERCER COUNTY, NJ - A Trenton Police officer and K9 were injured after an unlicensed driver sped through a stop sign on Thursday morning, Mayor Reed Gusciora said.

The patrol car crashed into a residential building as a result of the accident.

Officer Perez was en route to assist a State Patrol officer after reports of a man in possession of a gun with a high-capacity magazine when he was struck by the unlicensed driver at the corner of Second and Bridge Street, Gusciora said.

The officer's vehicle was T-boned, sending both cars into a residential building, Gusciora said.

Perez was hospitalized with a significant head injury but is listed in stable condition. He has since been released.

The driver was also in stable condition with minor cuts to the head. Both were taken to Capital Regional Medical Center.

The K9 was taken to NorthStar Veterinarian Hospital and was treated and released after suffering a facial injury.

"Thursday's accident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day in the line of duty. Officer Perez, who was en route to assist with a high-risk situation, showed immense bravery and quick thinking. We are relieved to hear that he, the K-9, and the other driver are all in stable condition and receiving the care they need," Gusciora said.

"Our thoughts are with them and their families as they recover from this incident. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and will continue to support our law enforcement officers in their tireless efforts to protect us all."

Additional officers were able to respond to the reports of a man with a gun and located juveniles in possession of imitation airsoft AR-15 style rifles, the Mayor said.

The rifles were confiscated without taking anyone being taken into custody.

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