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Trooper struck by car while responding to wrecks in Catawba County

By Dave Faherty, wsoctv.com
By Dave Faherty, wsoctv.com

CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — Channel 9 is working to learn the name of a North Carolina trooper who was hurt Wednesday night in a weather-related crash in Catawba County.

The Highway Patrol had to block Highway 321 for nearly an hour as they worked to determine exactly what happened.

The driver of the car who struck highway patrolman, Terry Neal, fought back tears and said he didn't see the state trooper he hit.

Neal not only had a concussion, but also a gash above his eye that required stitches and a bruised leg.

Troopers said they were investigating a crash nearby when another driver hit the trooper while he crossed the road. That trooper was knocked nearly 20 feet, but officials told Channel 9 that he was alert and talking.

The Highway Patrol said they were initially called to a weather-related crash along Highway 321 near the River Road Exit in Catawba County.

The driver said she hydroplaned in the heavy rain and ended up in the median.

Strong storms moved through the Hickory area Wednesday night and dumped nearly 2 inches of rainfall an hour.

The driver of the car that hit Neal said he was heading to church for Ash Wednesday and didn't see the officer.

"It is heartbreaking seeing someone who we work with every day hurt,” said Sgt. Matt Futrell from the N.C. Highway Patrol. “That's why we encourage the public to slow down when they see blue, red, even yellow lights.”

Investigators said the trooper who was hit was wearing his yellow safety traffic vest at the time. Channel 9 was told he was conscious when he was rushed to the hospital.

Troopers haven't determined yet if charges will be filed in the case.

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