Drunk Driver Collides with Portsmouth Police Cruiser

Shortly after 10:30 PM on July 7th, the Portsmouth Police Department was investigating a multi-car crash on Lafayette Road in Portsmouth. In doing so, traffic travelling north on Lafayette Road was temporarily diverted down Constitution Avenue until the roadway was clear.

A fully marked Portsmouth Police cruiser with blue lights and emergency equipment activated was parked on Lafayette Road at Constitution Avenue. The officer was outside the cruiser directing traffic. The officer observed a vehicle travelling northbound on Lafayette Road and not slowing. The officer tried to signal the operator to stop by hand motions and a flashlight but the vehicle continued north and struck the parked cruiser. The officer was able to run from the area of the cruiser to avoid being struck.

The force of the impact pushed the parked cruiser 90 degrees causing significant damage to both vehicles. Airbags in both vehicles deployed.

On scene investigation by additional responding officers determined the operator of the vehicle that struck the cruiser was impaired. He was subsequently arrested and identified as:

SCOTT RICHARDSON

43 years old

Gloucester, MA

Richardson was arrested on scene and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Negligent Driving. He was released on personal recognizance bail with an arraignment date of August 9th in Portsmouth Circuit Court.

A passenger in Richardson’s vehicle sustained minor injuries and was transported to Portsmouth Regional Hospital by the Portsmouth Fire Department.