An RCMP officer in central Alberta is currently recovering in the hospital following a collision involving an alleged drunk driver late Thursday night. The incident took place near Innisfail on Highway 2, which is known as Alberta's busiest highway. The officer had parked their cruiser on the roadside to complete paperwork while investigating an unrelated prior crash. During this time, the officer's vehicle was struck by a white Ford Explorer traveling at highway speeds, resulting in significant vehicle damage.

Emergency responders arrived promptly, transporting the injured officer to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Meanwhile, the driver of the Explorer, who was suspected of driving under the influence, was arrested at the scene. Subsequent breath test results indicated that the driver had a blood alcohol content nearly double the legal limit, prompting charges related to impaired driving. The collision underscores ongoing concerns regarding road safety and the dangers posed by impaired drivers, especially in high-traffic areas.

This incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers when they are on duty, particularly when operating on busy highways. The RCMP has not only highlighted the need for stricter penalties against impaired driving but also encouraged public awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence. With the investigation ongoing, the community is waiting to hear further developments as authorities ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.