MSP: Suspect arrested after state trooper hit, dragged by car in Holyoke

HOLYOKE, Mass — A driver who allegedly struck and dragged a Massachusetts State Police trooper with his car during a traffic stop in Holyoke Friday afternoon has been arrested, officials say.

At approximately 3:00 p.m., the trooper tried to stop Michael Williams Jr., driving a 2007 Chevrolet Malibu, in a rest area off Route 91 northbound, Massachusetts State Police said. When Williams allegedly tried to escape, the trooper attempted to disengage but was dragged a short distance by the vehicle as it sped away, MSP says.

The trooper has been taken to the hospital to be treated for his non-life-threatening injuries.

Police say the vehicle crashed further up the road and the suspected driver ran into the woods between Route 91 and Route 5. The suspect was eventually found by a K9 unit at approximately a 5:35 p.m. and placed under arrest.

Williams Jr., of Greenfield, is facing the following charges: assault and battery with a dangerous weapon; negligent operation of a motor vehicle; operating after license was suspended for prior OUI offense; leaving the scene of a crash that caused personal injury; failure to stop for police; speeding; marked Lanes Violation; and resisting arrest.

The incident comes a week after a state trooper was dragged during a traffic stop in Brockton.

Patrick McNamara, President of the State Police Association of Massachusetts provided the following statement to Boston 25 News.

“Twice in a matter of about a week is twice too many. Today another member was injured when struck and dragged by a fleeing suspect during a traffic stop in Holyoke. Enough is enough. This reckless and blatant disregard for the lives of our members needs to stop. We are relieved that the involved Trooper was not seriously injured and pleased that this fugitive was apprehended quickly thanks to the hard work and dedication of our Troopers and local Law Enforcement partners. Like we said last week, those who hurt our members will be tracked down and held to answer for their crimes.”

—  -President Patrick McNamara, State Police Association of Massachusetts

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