Rochester, NY (June 16, 2026) – A civilian police technician was hurt on Sunday after a truck struck a Rochester police vehicle and then left the area, according to police.
The collision occurred while the technician was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Thurston Avenue and Brooks Avenue. Investigators said a truck hit the rear of the police vehicle, causing minor damage. The technician received treatment at a local hospital and was later released.
A short time later, the suspect vehicle was found after it struck a light pole on Elmwood Avenue near Genesee Street. The driver, identified as a 63-year-old Chili resident, was detained and taken to a hospital for evaluation.
Police said the driver is expected to face charges for leaving the scene of a personal-injury accident, as well as other traffic violations. Additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the wreck were not immediately available.
Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and review the circumstances of the crash. We wish the injured technician a smooth and complete recovery.
What Happens When a Driver Leaves the Scene After a Traffic Crash?
When a driver leaves the scene of a traffic crash involving injuries, investigators typically work to identify the vehicle and determine what occurred before and after the collision. Evidence may include vehicle damage, roadway markings, surveillance footage, witness statements, and information gathered from the vehicles involved.
Leaving the scene can make it more difficult to assess injuries and document the circumstances immediately following a crash. In many cases, locating the vehicle quickly helps preserve evidence that may clarify how the roadway encounter unfolded. If the vehicle is found after another collision or after sustaining additional damage, investigators may review both locations to establish a timeline. Information collected during the process can help determine potential traffic violations and the sequence of actions leading up to the crash.