Rhode Island Wildlife Officer Struck by Man Riding Dirt Bike

DiPeitro reportedly deliberately drove in the officer's direction, striking him. The officer—whose name has not been released—then reportedly discharged his service weapon.

DiPeitro was charged with assaulting a police officer, obstructing a police officer, failing to stop or move for an environmental police officer and reckless driving while trying to elude an officer.

The officer was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. His condition was not immediately released.

An officer with the Rhode Island Department of Enviornmental Management was struck by a man riding a dirt bike in the Big River Management Area just east of Nooseneck on Saturday afternoon.

According to the Providence Journal , the man—identified as 22-year-old Austin DiPeitro was one of three men illegally riding their off-road motorcycles in the restricted area when they came upon the environmental officer on patrol.