Investigation Underway After Rookie SFPD Officer's DUI Crash, Injuries Sustained

Michael

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Investigation Underway After Rookie SFPD Officer's DUI Crash, Injuries Sustained

San Francisco, CA – October 26, 2023 – A San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) officer is under investigation following a suspected DUI crash that resulted in injuries early Tuesday morning. The incident has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the department's training and oversight procedures.

The crash occurred around 2:00 AM on the corner of Market and Valencia Streets, a busy intersection known for its nightlife. According to witnesses, a police vehicle, driven by a rookie officer identified as 24-year-old Officer David Miller, ran a red light and collided with a civilian vehicle. The impact was significant, resulting in injuries to both Officer Miller and the occupants of the other vehicle, a couple identified as Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez.

<h3>Serious Injuries Reported, Investigation Launched</h3>

The Hernandezes were transported to San Francisco General Hospital with moderate to severe injuries. Mr. Hernandez suffered a broken leg, while Mrs. Hernandez sustained a concussion and multiple bruises. Officer Miller, while also injured, was treated at the scene and released. The severity of his injuries has not been officially disclosed.

Following the crash, SFPD officers administered a field sobriety test to Officer Miller, and preliminary results suggest he was driving under the influence of alcohol. A blood sample has been taken and sent for further analysis. The investigation is currently being handled by the SFPD’s Internal Affairs division, alongside an independent investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This dual investigation is standard procedure in such incidents involving law enforcement officers.

<h3>Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability</h3>

The incident has triggered widespread public outrage and calls for increased accountability within the SFPD. Many San Francisco residents have expressed concerns about the potential for future incidents involving officers driving under the influence. This is especially concerning given Officer Miller's rookie status, highlighting potential weaknesses in the department's training programs and background checks.

"This is unacceptable," stated City Supervisor Aaron Peskin in a press release. "The safety of our community should be paramount. A thorough and transparent investigation is crucial, and appropriate disciplinary action must be taken to ensure this never happens again."

<h3>SFPD’s Response and Internal Review</h3>

SFPD Chief Susan Mani issued a statement expressing her deep concern regarding the incident. She stated that the department is cooperating fully with the investigation and that Officer Miller has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Chief Mani also announced an internal review of the SFPD's training protocols concerning alcohol and substance abuse prevention.

The SFPD has faced scrutiny in the past regarding officer conduct and accountability. This latest incident only serves to intensify calls for reform within the department. The full details of the investigation are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

<h3>Further Developments to Watch</h3>

• The results of the blood alcohol content (BAC) test from Officer Miller's blood sample.
• The outcome of both the SFPD Internal Affairs investigation and the CHP investigation.
• The potential for civil lawsuits filed by the Hernandezes against the SFPD and Officer Miller.
• The implementation of any new training or policy changes within the SFPD as a result of this incident.

This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available. For further updates on this and other San Francisco news, .