Suspected DUI driver slams into firetruck as crews battle Puyallup garage fire

A suspected DUI driver crashed into a firetruck in Puyallup as firefighters were actively working to contain a residence fire on Sunday.

At approximately 3:30 a.m., Central Pierce Fire & Rescue (CPFR) crews responded to a garage fire at a residential property, CPFR announced.

Suspected DUI driver heavily damages firetruck in Puyallup collision

Roughly one hour into the call, Truck 72 was struck by a vehicle as firefighters worked to contain the fire.

Truck 72 was strategically positioned to block off the roadway and protect the scene. Both the suspect’s vehicle and Truck 72 received heavy damage.

The Puyallup Police Department evaluated the suspect for impairment while on the scene.

“You would have to imagine that somebody who sees a 10-ton apparatus with flashing lights and still strikes it would have to be fairly impaired,” Puyallup Police Captain Kevin Gill told KIRO Newsradio. “We have a problem with impaired drivers, and it seems not to be slowing down. So, we do everything we can to intercept that and take them off the road.”

CPFR noted that no firefighters were injured as a result of the collision.

“This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of scene safety and slowing down and/or moving over when approaching emergency vehicles and personnel,” CPFR stated.

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