Winchester Police investigate crash involving fire apparatus

WINCHESTER –   The Winchester Police Department is investigating a vehicle accident involving a Shawnee Volunteer Fire Company apparatus.  City of Winchester Fire and Rescue personnel were responding to a medical call when they collided with a Honda CRV at the intersection of Pleasant Valley Road and Berryville Avenue around 1:30 p.m. Friday afternoon, Nov. 18.  The fire apparatus was travelling North on Pleasant Valley when it slowly proceeded through the intersection with lights flashing and sirens on. 

The driver of the CRV, who was traveling westbound on Berryville Avenue, is an 84-year-old man from Stephens City. He was taken to the hospital and his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.  Initial reports state that none of the Fire and Rescue personnel inside the apparatus were injured.  The accident remains under investigation.   

The Winchester Police Department would like to remind drivers that Virginia Law requires drivers to move to the nearest edge of the roadway when an emergency vehicle approaches with lights and sirens. 

Virginia Code 46.2-829 says drivers should move as quickly as traffic conditions permit and remain there, unless otherwise directed by a law-enforcement officer, until the emergency vehicle has passed. If an emergency vehicle approaches while you are at an intersection, it is best to stay stationary or move to the right side of the road to allow the emergency vehicle to pass. 

Police also recommend drivers remain alert and expect to see more than one emergency vehicle.