Deputy’s car hit by driver

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, December 2, 2009

A China Grove woman is charged with driving while impaired after authorities say she crashed into a Rowan County Sheriff’s Office patrol car at a license check Wednesday night.
Authorities say Krystal Kocher, 23, of 320 Millbridge Circle, China Grove, had a blood alcohol level of .10.
Deputies Michael Hoffman and Allan Amerson were conducting the license check at Smith Road and Enochville Avenue, a Sheriff’s Office press release said.
Amerson had parked his vehicle, with blue lights flashing, in the parking lot of Westside Store, the press release said. Hoffman was parked on Eagle Street, off Enochville Road, also with his blue lights on. Both deputies were wearing reflective vests. 
Amerson said he saw a car approaching the checkpoint at approximately 65 mph. He yelled for Hoffman to get out of the way. Amerson said the vehicle locked down its brakes and slid, striking Hoffman’s patrol car.
There were no injuries, but EMS was contacted to check the driver of the vehicle. The driver refused any treatment.
Damage to Hoffman’s car was estimated at $750 and it was able to be driven.
Trooper D.R. Brackman of the N.C. Highway Patrol filed the accident report and charged Kocher with DWI and speeding.
Kocher was released on a written promise to appear in court.