Two officers injured after being struck by a Mercedes during a traffic stop in Brooklyn.

Two police officers were injured when a driver attempted to flee a traffic stop in Gravesend, Brooklyn, on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred around 4:39 a.m. when officers initiated a stop on Anas Rao, a 20-year-old resident of Flatlands, for allegedly running a red traffic signal in his grey Mercedes C300.

As officers approached Rao’s vehicle on foot, the driver suddenly reversed the car, colliding with the two officers. One officer was struck in the leg while the other suffered an injury to his left foot. Following the incident, emergency medical personnel transported both officers to a local hospital, where they were reported to be in stable condition.

The suspect fled the scene, driving westward on Quentin Road. A subsequent investigation led to Rao’s arrest later that same day. He faces multiple charges, including assault, vehicular assault, reckless endangerment, possession of forged instruments, and obstruction.

This incident underscores the increasing risks faced by law enforcement, particularly during traffic stops—a routine yet dangerous aspect of police work. According to police statistics, encounters with moving violations can escalate unexpectedly, as seen in this case where an individual chose to evade law enforcement, putting officers and the public at risk.

In response to the alarming rate of injuries sustained by officers in the line of duty, police departments have been implementing enhanced training protocols focused on safety during traffic stops. Officials emphasize the need for both drivers and officers to remain vigilant. While most stops conclude without incident, the unpredictable nature of traffic stops necessitates preparedness for all possible scenarios.

As investigations continue, law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. This case serves as a reminder of the precarious nature of police work and the potential dangers inherent in interactions between law enforcement and the public.

The situation remains under review as authorities work towards ensuring the safety of officers patrolling the streets, and measures are taken to address the challenges they face in fulfilling their duties. The resilience of the injured officers highlights the continual need for support within law enforcement agencies.