Ripon, CA (September 4, 2024) An erratic driver caused a fiery collision in Ripon on Monday night, September 2nd. The driver fled, leaving their passenger to die, reports indicated. It happened at the intersection of Santos Avenue and Jack Tone Road, just after 9:00 p.m. A police officer risked his own life to save the passenger, according to reports.
Officers with the Ripon Police Department arrived at Love’s Truck Stop on a call about a white Tesla driving erratically. The driver of the Tesla was inside the convenience store and officers watched as he left the store, got in the Tesla and sped away. The driver of the Tesla approached the intersection of Santos Avenue and Jack Tone Road, but failed to stop and collided with other vehicles. The Tesla caught on fire as the driver got out and fled on foot, leaving the passenger behind in a burning car.
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Officer Jacob Veltkamp was at the scene and hurried to the Tesla without hesitation. Witnesses said the officer pulled the passenger from the vehicle seconds before it became fully engulfed in flames. Paramedics at the scene rushed both the passenger and Officer Veltkamp to a nearby hospital. The passenger’s injuries are unknown, but reports indicated that they are in critical condition. Officer Veltkamp suffered severe burns to his hands.
Officers are still looking for the driver of the Tesla. They are determined to find them and bring them to justice.
Accident News Now wishes the injured passenger a full recovery following this fiery collision in Ripon. If you or someone you care about has been affected by this accident, we have a wonderful team of legal representatives ready to offer guidance during this time.
