Fort Pierce, United States - November 30, 2024 A St. Lucie County sheriff’s deputy’s hand was stuck under a tire on November 30 night when a DUI driver crashed into law enforcement vehicles during a felony traffic stop on U.S. Highway 1. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, two deputies and one Fort Pierce police officer were standing outside their vehicles at 11:25 p.m. when 45-year-old Perry Peables, failing to move over, struck the rear of a St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO) vehicle. The force of the collision caused a chain reaction, hitting two other law enforcement vehicles and injuring the officers. Sheriff Keith Pearson confirmed that the deputy’s hand was pinned under one of the tires after the crash. “It could’ve been a lot worse,” he said. “We’re lucky this wasn’t a tragedy.” Peables, who was driving under a suspended license, was arrested on six counts of DUI with property damage and injury, and for refusing a DUI test. Alcohol was found to be a factor in the crash. This incident follows just weeks after a similar tragedy in Palm Beach County, where three deputies were killed in a vehicle collision. Sheriff Pearson emphasized the importance of following Florida’s “Move Over” laws and staying alert while driving, especially as more people move into the area. The deputies and officer were released from the hospital after treatment, with Pearson expressing gratitude for the community’s support and prayers. The road has since reopened.