Driver three times the legal limit slams into MSP patrol car as troopers were shutting down flooded Southfield Freeway

(WWJ) — A driver is behind bars after crashing into a Michigan State Police car early Friday morning.

The crash happened just before 2:30 a.m. as troopers were closing the Southfield Freeway near Grand River Avenue due to flooding, according to MSP.

MSP officials say troopers had the southbound lanes of the freeway blocked by cones and patrol cars with their emergency lights on and traffic was being ramped off at Grand River.

Troopers at the scene saw the driver of a Lincoln speeding towards the patrol car. The 33-year-old driver then hit the patrol car.

When troopers spoke to the driver, he showed signs of impairment. He was arrested and taken to the Detroit Detention Center.

Officials said the man registered at three times the legal limit, but his exact BAC was not disclosed.

The driver was not injured, according to MSP. Officials did not release the driver’s name or hometown.

“We are very fortunate that no one was hurt in this crash.” MSP First Lt. Mike Shaw said on X . “This is another example of the preventable crashes we are seeing due to risky driving behaviors on our roadways.”

The freeway was being shut down after heavy rain overnight caused flooding on multiple Metro Detroit freeways and surface streets.