10/09/2026
Cumberland Officer Injured During Apprehension:
Cumberland, IN: In the evening of Thursday, October 8th, 2026, Cumberland Police Officers were alerted to a possible reckless vehicle in the area of 100N and Buck Creek Road, Cumberland, Hancock County. An Officer then observed the vehicle near US40 (Washington Street) and Buck Creek Road operating with no front passenger tire, just the metal rim, the rear door open, and driving erratically. The Officer initiated a traffic stop, however, the vehicle failed to stop and began actively attempting to flee Officers.
Officers pursued the vehicle into the Marion County portion of Cumberland where the vehicle’s operator eventually spun out and came to a brief stop. Officers issued commands to the driver, however, the driver ignored Officers. Officers then attempted to extricate the sole occupant of the vehicle from the driver’s seat, however, the driver accelerated the vehicle once again, striking one Officer with the vehicle.
As the vehicle began to move again, a second Cumberland Officer utilized his patrol vehicle to push the suspect vehicle off the roadway, stopping it from being able to move further. At that time, the suspect continued to resist Officer’s commands physically causing Officers to utilize non-lethal force. The suspect was taken into custody after a brief confrontation.
The Cumberland Officer struck by the vehicle is being evaluated by medical staff at a local area hospital, but is in stable and good condition with minor injuries.
The suspect was transported to a local area hospital for evaluation and treatment of minor injuries before being booked into the Hancock County Jail.
During the investigation, Officers determined the suspect to be under the influence of alcohol and narcotics. The adult male suspect is preliminarily being charged with reckless driving, resisting law enforcement, battery by means of a deadly weapon, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. These charges are alleged, and the suspect is presumed innocent until determined guilty through legal process. This investigation will be presented to the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office for review due to the incident being initiated in Hancock County. Final charges will be determined by HCPO.
We are thankful the injuries sustained by both parties are minor and for the quick actions of our experienced and knowledgeable Officers on scene.
Thank you to our partners at IMPD East District for their assistance.