CHP officer in critical condition after being struck by Tesla on 5 Freeway

A California Highway Patrol officer was critically injured Sunday after being hit by a vehicle on the 5 Freeway in Sylmar.

The collision unfolded around 3:32 a.m. on the thoroughfare at the 210 Freeway interchange in Sylmar. According to the CHP, the officer was assisting a disabled vehicle in the slow lane of the freeway when the officer was struck by a 2023 Tesla.

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The officer was taken to Providence Holy Cross Hospital, where he remains. He suffered "major" injuries and has been listed in critical condition.

The southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway were closed near the 110 Freeway through Balboa Boulevard for several hours, but reopened before 10:45 a.m., authorities said.

Alcohol and drugs were not believed to have been factors in the cause for the crash.

"It is unknown at this time if any automated driving features were activated on the Tesla at the time of the crash," the CHP said in a news release.

CHP investigators say that the driver of the Tesla remained at the scene to cooperate with their investigation.

"It is very hard for all of us, cause CHP officers do put their lives on the line every day for the community, to keep everyone safe," said CHP Sergeant Dan Keene on Sunday during a press conference. "Especially this individual, who was disabled in lanes. It's very scary for them and it's our job to be there and provide safety for the motoring public."

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information was asked to contact the CHP's Southern Division Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team at (323) 644-9550.

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