2 Mansfield police officers struck, injured by suspect vehicle at local park, officials say
Two Mansfield police officers were struck and injured by a suspect’s vehicle early Friday, Dec. 13, at a local park. The driver faces multiple charges, officials said.
Officer Lemons was on patrol in the area of 799 W. Broad St. when she saw a vehicle in the lot at McClendon Park West. The park was closed, but the 2001 black Nissan Altima was occupied by two people, Mansfield police said in a news release.
Lemons went over to the Nissan to investigate and detected the odor of marijuana, according to the release. She called for backup, and when Officer Jamison arrived, the two gave commands for the occupants to get out of the vehicle.
The driver, identified as 18-year-old Diego Battle, refused to exit. Lemons opened the door on the driver’s side, and a brief struggle ensued, the release states. Battle then put the vehicle in reverse, according to police.
Lemons was forced to the ground by the driver’s door, which was still open. Jamison was also hit by the vehicle. Battle switched gears and drove away, according to the release.
The 18-year-old female passenger exited the vehicle and was unharmed in the incident, officials said. She was released at the scene.
Mansfield police pursued Battle to an apartment complex at 6910 Cockrell Hill Road. Battle fled inside an apartment, but surrendered after a phone call from a police negotiator.
Lemons was treated at the scene for her injuries and released. Jamison’s injuries weren’t serious, according to officials.
The Nissan was impounded, and Battle was taken into custody. He faces several charges, including two counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer and evading arrest with a vehicle, the release states.
