Driver arrested after hitting Escambia Co. Deputy

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - Alcohol is being blamed for an overnight accident involving an Escambia County Deputy. The accident happened on US29 just before 3 a.m. Thursday, October 11.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol report, the unmarked Escambia County Sheriff's Department vehicle was in the southbound lane with its lights activated assisting another deputy. Deputy Jack Holland was in the driver's seat and noticed a vehicle approaching behind him, and not slowing down.

Deputy Holland says he tried to get out of the way, but was not able to in time. Tanya Mcateer was driving the second vehicle, and troopers say her vehicle's right front collided with the deputy vehicle's left rear. The impact forced the deputy into the ditch.

Neither driver was injured. However, Mcateer was charged with careless driving and DUI with property damages.