A suicidal 18-year-old driver intentionally crashed into a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) patrol car in Palm Coast on New Year’s Eve after a pursuit.
The incident began around 5:00 PM on December 31st when an FHP trooper received a BOLO (Be on the Lookout) alert for a vehicle driven by Dominic Joseph Guerrisi, 18, who had made suicidal threats. After initially losing sight of Guerrisi, troopers were able to track him as he exited I-95 and traveled south on US 1.
Another trooper positioned at County Road 204 witnessed Guerrisi speed past, attempting to flee. A pursuit ensued, with Guerrisi weaving through traffic and driving recklessly.
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The pursuit continued onto Old Kings Road, where Guerrisi encountered another FHP patrol car with a trooper and an auxiliary trooper inside. Guerrisi then intentionally drove his vehicle into the patrol car, striking it head-on.
The trooper witnessing the crash quickly intervened and, with the help of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, apprehended Guerrisi. Both Guerrisi and the two troopers in the patrol car were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries. The troopers have since been released.
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Guerrisi is facing multiple charges, including:
- Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer (2 counts)
- Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (2 counts)
- Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement
“State Troopers put their lives at risk in defense and protection of our state 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This incident and arrest highlights the immense courage Florida’s Finest and our Auxiliary Troopers display daily.”
FHP Colonel Gary Howze II echoed these sentiments, adding, “We are thankful that none of the law enforcement involved were more seriously injured, and grateful for the invaluable assistance from our telecommunication professionals and fellow law enforcement partners.”
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