Auburn, California – A California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer is in the hospital after being hit by a driver suspected of running a red light in Auburn.
The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. as the CHP officer was patrolling northbound on Highway 49 on his motorcycle near Shale Ridge Road. The collision happened when another driver traveling south on Highway 49 allegedly ran a red light, crashing into the officer on eastbound Shale Ridge Road.
As a result, the officer was ejected from his motorcycle and sustained major injuries, requiring hospitalization.
CHP Officer Yvette Norman stated that the driver admitted to running the red turn light due to being late for work. Investigations are ongoing, and while drugs or alcohol are not believed to be involved, charges are pending.
The crash led to the closure of Highway 49 between Bell Road and Dry Creek Road, causing disruptions until it reopened before noon.
Residents express concerns about safety on Highway 49, highlighting the need for drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws, especially at intersections. Caltrans is actively working on safety improvements, including the addition of roundabouts to manage speed and enhance traffic flow.
