MONKTON — A Bristol Police Department officer narrowly escaped serious injury late Tuesday night when his patrol vehicle rolled down an embankment after encountering a flood-induced roadway hazard.
The incident occurred on July 10 at 11:54 p.m. as Officer Armin Nukic, 35, of South Burlington, was navigating a 2018 Ford Explorer north on Silver Street during a torrential downpour.
The heavy rain had caused substantial flooding on the roads, with water flowing across the surface.
According to the Vermont State Police, Nukic encountered downed powerlines and a pole that obstructed the road.
In an attempt to avoid the obstruction, the officer steered the cruiser onto the shoulder.
The waterlogged ground gave way, causing the vehicle to tumble about 30 feet down the embankment, coming to rest with significant damage to its sides and roof.
Officer Nukic managed to extricate himself from the wrecked cruiser and was subsequently transported to Porter Medical Center for minor injuries.
After a thorough examination, he was released from the hospital.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Vermont State Police, Hinesburg Police Department, Bristol Fire and Rescue, Charlotte Rescue, Green Mountain Power, and Dupont’s Towing.
The cooperative effort ensured the officer’s safety and the clearing of the hazard.
The Vermont State Police have not disclosed additional information regarding the crash.
