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Gallagher was critically injured while pursuing Cody Fischer, suspected of speeding under the influence on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, officials said during a press conference held by the Suffolk County Executive's office.
The incident began at approximately 6:09 p.m. near Exit 55 in the westbound lanes of the LIE. Gallagher, a member of the department's Street Takeover Task Force, was conducting an unrelated traffic stop. Fischer sped by at an estimated 95 to 100 mph. Fischer was suspected of driving under the influence, according to authorities.
Gallagher immediately got into his patrol car and initiated a pursuit. Officials said Fischer attempted to evade capture by blending into traffic but soon lost control of the Mustang.
The Mustang fishtailed, narrowly avoided hitting another vehicle, and then sideswiped Gallagher’s car, causing the officer to lose control. Gallagher’s vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. Fischer’s Mustang then collided with a light post.
Emergency medical crews worked for more than 30 minutes to extricate Gallagher from his overturned vehicle. He was flown to Stony Brook University Hospital with life-threatening injuries and underwent emergency surgery. Fischer was taken into custody at the scene, though charges against him have not yet been announced.
This is not the first time Gallagher has faced significant danger on duty. Officials revealed that nearly two years ago to the day, he was stabbed while responding to an incident in Medford.
Off-duty Nassau County officer Timothy Degan, who was on his way to work, stopped and pulled Fischer out of his vehicle, officials said.
Fischer, who was on probation for a weapons charge, has additionally been arrested on DUI charges, assault, unlawful fleeing, and reckless driving.
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