State police cruiser struck by allegedly impaired driver in Taunton

TAUNTON, Mass. — The Massachusetts State Police announced Friday morning that an accident happened Thursday night involving a trooper’s marked cruiser and an allegedly impaired driver in Taunton.

Authorities confirmed to Boston 25 News the crash happened at approximately 10 p.m. on Cohannet Street. A trooper was struck by an allegedly impaired driver, Saul Justa, 44, of Taunton, while he was in his marked cruiser.

Immediately after the crash, the trooper called for help over his radio, and numerous agencies responded, including other MSP troopers, Taunton Police, and Taunton Fire. The suspect remained at the scene. The trooper was sent by EMS to Morton Hospital for minor injuries before he was released before midnight.

Shortly after mutual aid arrived at the scene, Justa was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. He was booked at State Police-Middleborough on a charge of OUI-Liquor before he was released from custody on $100 cash bail, police say.

Justa is scheduled to be arranged for Friday in Taunton District Court. The crash remains under investigation at this time by the Massachusetts State Police.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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