CHARLESTON, Kanawha County, W.Va., Oct. 27, 2026 — A driver is expected to face a DUI charge after hitting a Charleston police cruiser on Interstate 77 Monday afternoon, October 26, according to Charleston Police.
The crash happened near the 98 mile marker on southbound I-77 while an officer had another driver pulled over. A Toyota sedan heading southbound reportedly left the roadway and struck the marked cruiser, whose emergency lights were on at the time.
The driver and a passenger in the Toyota were taken to a hospital with what police described as minor injuries. The officer was evaluated at a hospital as a precaution and is expected to be okay. Two southbound lanes were closed immediately after the crash while crews worked the scene.
The driver, identified by Charleston Police as 61 year old David Buddin of Charleston, is expected to be charged with driving under the influence causing injury once released from the hospital.
The crash remains under investigation. We hope those who were hurt recover quickly.
Local Crash Information for Charleston, WV
The crash was reported on I-77 in Charleston. For more crash news from the area, see our Kanawha County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does speed play into a crash? Higher speed gives a driver less time to react and increases the force involved when two vehicles collide, which tends to raise the odds of serious injury.
Why is impaired or distracted driving particularly risky near roadside stops? A driver who is impaired or not paying attention may not notice a parked vehicle or flashing lights in time to slow down or change lanes, which is especially dangerous for officers and others standing outside their vehicles.
What should I do if I'm involved in a crash like this? Stay as safe as possible, call 911, and get checked by a medical provider even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms take time to appear. Cooperate with responding officers and get a copy of the official report once it's available.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Charleston, WV
If you're involved in a crash in Charleston, move to a safe spot if you're able and call 911 right away. Even when injuries seem minor, it's worth being examined by a medical professional, since adrenaline can mask pain or symptoms that show up later. Take photos of the scene if it's safe to do so, exchange information with anyone else involved, and ask for a copy of the police report once it's filed. If a public safety vehicle or officer was involved, giving a clear account to investigators can help the review move along smoothly.
