Police Drone Aids in Rescue of Unconscious Driver in Hingham Crash

Innovative Use of Drone Technology in Law Enforcement

In a remarkable demonstration of modern policing technology, the Hingham Police Department successfully used a drone to locate an unconscious man involved in a serious car crash.

The incident occurred early Saturday morning when the 23-year-old Quincy man, who is accused of drunk driving, fled the scene after crashing his SUV in the state of Massachusetts.

The Crash and Subsequent Search

The single-vehicle accident, involving a 2020 Chevrolet Suburban, happened around 4:23 a.m. on Lincoln Street. According to the police, the SUV was traveling at high speed when it veered off the road and hit a large tree.

The impact was so severe that it caused the vehicle to spin 180 degrees and come to a halt near a utility pole on the opposite side of the road, ejecting a tire and part of the axle onto the roadway, as reported by Boston 25 Now.

A witness at the scene informed the police that the driver had run away after being told that 911 would be called.

Drone Technology to the Rescue

In a bid to find the missing driver, the Hingham Police deployed a drone. At the same time, K9 units from local and state police were called in to assist with the search. The police drone played a crucial role by locating the man lying face down in a wooded area near Bremer Circle.

The Discovery and Charges

Upon discovery, the man was unconscious but was soon awakened by the officers. They noted a strong odor of alcohol and observed that his eyes were glassy and bloodshot. The police confirmed his identity as the driver from the witness’s description and from items found in the SUV bearing his name.

Pending Legal Proceedings

Although the man was not immediately arrested at the scene, he will face several charges. These include driving under the influence of alcohol, leaving the scene of a crash causing property damage, negligent driving, speeding, and marked lane violations. He will be summoned to court to face these charges.

This incident underscores the increasing role of technology, such as drones, in enhancing law enforcement capabilities, particularly in Search and Rescue operations.

The Hingham Police Department’s effective use of Drone Technology in this case not only expedited the search but potentially saved a life.

Photo courtesy of the Hingham Police Department