NorCal CHP officer killed after being struck by suspected drunk driver on Christmas Eve

Monday, December 25, 2017

CHP officer killed after being struck by alleged drunk driver on I-880 in Hayward

Officials say CHP Ofc. Andrew Camilleri was killed late Sunday night after being struck on southbound I-880 in Hayward by a driver who was allegedly drunk.

HAYWARD, Calif. -- California Highway Patrol Officer Andrew Camilleri died in a crash on southbound I-880 in Hayward on Christmas Eve, authorities said.

The 33-year-old officer had been with the CHP for a little over a year. Camilleri is survived by his wife, Rosanna, a daughter and two sons.

Officials said Camilleri's partner Jonathan Velasquez, was sitting in the driver's seat of their patrol vehicle at the time of the crash. He suffered injuries, but was treated and released from the hospital.

The CHP said the two officers were parked on the right shoulder of southbound I-880, just past the Whipple exit, looking for drunk drivers.

A driver in a red Cadillac drifted off the road and slammed into their SUV at 11:30 p.m. Sunday, authorities said.

It appeared the driver of the Cadillac was not only drunk, but under the influence of drugs and was coming home from a party, according to the CHP.

Authorities did not release the suspect's identity, but said he is a 22-year-old from Hayward.

The suspect is currently in the hospital being treated for his injuries.

The California Highway Patrol credit union has set up a fund to help the officer's family.

Gov. Jerry Brown issued a statement following news of the officer's death.

"Anne and I are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Officer Camilleri, who died yesterday while working to keep our communities safe. We join his family, friends and the entire California Highway Patrol in mourning his death and in honoring his sacrifice."

In honor of Camilleri, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

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