Video shows ‘distracted’ truck driver striking a Kansas trooper’s cruiser on I-70, leaving police dog severely injured

Dash cam video shows a major crash that occurred earlier this month showing a reportedly ‘distracted’ truck driver striking a Kansas trooper’s cruiser on I-70, leaving police dog severely injured.

The crash occurred on the afternoon of January 12, 2024, on I-70 in Ellis County, Kansas, amid a major winter weather event.

From KHP:

This video is extremely difficult to watch. It is the dash camera video from Friday, January 12, when Trooper Budke’s patrol vehicle was struck with K9 Igor inside. This video is the view from Trooper Schulte’s vehicle.

Trooper Budke and Trooper Schulte had I-70 shut down due to an overturned semi ahead. Both troopers attempted to gain the attention of the driver, but he failed to exit the highway, and struck Trooper Budke’s vehicle, narrowly missing both Troopers as they ran to avoid being hit.

We show this video as a graphic reminder of the dangers and consequences of distracted driving. It is so important to always focus on the roadway when driving, and put distractions away.

Thankfully, both Troopers avoided being struck and after being rushed for emergency veterinarian care and emergency surgery K9 Igor is home recovering.

KHP personnel continue to investigate this crash.

Thank you to everyone that has reached out with thoughts and prayers for K9 Igor.

See the video below.