HAINES CITY, Fla. — Haines City Police Officer Jose Ramirez is in critical condition following a traffic stop and car crash.
The accident happened near East Johnson Avenue and Power Line Road.
Officers Ramirez and Gedrick Vargas were conducting a routine traffic stop Saturday evening when 19-year-old Robert Lee Smith III pointed a rifle at the officers and then took off in the car, according to police.
Officials said the officers tried to catch up with Smith when their patrol car was struck by another vehicle.
Both officers were hurt in that accident, and Vargas was released from the hospital on Sunday morning.
Ramirez underwent surgery for a broken arm, facial injuries and a brain bleed. He is currently in the ICU.
Police say Smith has since been arrested.
This is a developing story and more information will be provided as it becomes available.