Officer runs over hit-and-run victim

GASTONIA, North Carolina (AP) -- A police officer responding to an emergency call of a man struck by a car accidentally ran over the victim with his cruiser Thursday, authorities said.

Investigators remained uncertain whether the victim was already dead when he was struck a second time by the police car, said Sheriff's Department Capt. Tony Robinson.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol was investigating.

The 911 call was received early Thursday, police said. After reaching the scene, officer J.C. May was blinded by the high beams of a parked car and struck the victim.

The man was in the road and was pronounced dead at the scene. His name was not available, Robinson said.

May was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Source