CHP Officer Struck by Suspected DUI Driver

A 15-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol reportedly suffered life-threatening injuries when he was struck by a suspected drunk driver while directing traffic on a state highway on Saturday night.

According to CBS News , the driver—identified as 21-year-old Lucas Julian Nelson—was driving a gray SUV at a high rate of speed, failed to stop for a railroad crossing sign and struck the officer.

The officer—whose name has not yet been released—was airlifted to a hospital roughly 50 miles from where the incident occurred.

He is listed in critical but stable condition.