Hit and run leaves police officer in hospital

MIAMI (WSVN) -- A chain reaction crash has put a Miami Police motorcycle officer in the hospital.

According to Miami Police, Officer Juancarlos Erigoyen suffered a broken shoulder in the accident Monday afternoon but is expected to make a full recovery.

City of Miami Police said the person responsible for the crash, which occurred just after noon, at West Flagler Street and 37th Avenue, took off from the scene. Miami Police Detective Willie Moreno explained, a driver crashed into a pickup truck, which in turn struck the officer.

Moreno said the officer was leading a funeral procession when the pickup struck him.

Police believe an elderly driver cut-off the pickup, which hit the police motorcycle. The driver of the pickup stayed at the scene, but the elderly driver did not. "It's an elderly person driving a four-door sky blue or silver vehicle," said Moreno. "They might not even be aware that they caused an accident, but we do need to talk to that person. This was the cause of this accident."

Erigoyen is recovering at Jackson Memorial Hospital. The six-year veteran has received visits from a slew of officers since being admitted. His colleagues have described him as a person who goes out of his way to help his fellow officers.

Police continue to search for the driver responsible for the crash. Police do not have a good description of the elderly driver. They do not even know whether the driver was male or female. If you have any information on this hit and run, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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