NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 6, 2006
Contact: Michele Nicholson
Public Information Officer
(850) 651-7420
POSSE
MEMBER AND MOTORCYCLIST RECOVERING FROM TRAFFIC CRASH
A member of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Posse is recovering from
serious injuries received when a motorcyclist crashed into him while he directed
traffic on the
Traffic Investigator Mark Raiche says Hanson was near his patrol car in the
southbound center lane of the bridge. He was helping support traffic detours
caused by the Billy Bowlegs Torchlight Parade. Raiche says Painter failed to see
and avoid Deputy Hanson despite the flashing emergency lights on the patrol car.
Painter nearly ran into Hanson’s car before colliding with Hanson and then
hitting the raised center concrete barrier of the bridge. Alcohol is believed to
be a factor in the crash and charges are pending.
The Sheriff’s Posse is a group of dedicated volunteers who help provide
numerous law enforcement related functions.
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