Dade City Man Arrested for DUI After Sideswiping Patrol Car During I-75 Crash Investigation in Wesley Chapel (2024)

WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. - Early Sunday morning, a 23-year-old man from Dade City was arrested after sideswiping a patrol car on I-75, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The incident took place around 2:14 a.m. while a trooper was parked within a safety zone created by orange safety cones. The trooper was investigating a crash in the southbound lanes of I-75, approximately one mile south of SR-54. In addition to the trooper's vehicle, there were two Road Ranger units and two other FHP patrol cars present at the scene, all with their emergency lights activated to ensure visibility and safety.

Officials say that Elmer Joel Perez Ramirez, driving a black Chevy, was traveling south in the middle lane when he suddenly swerved and sideswiped one of the patrol cars. The impact of the collision caused significant concern among the officers on the scene, although no injuries were reported.

Troopers identified Perez Ramirez using his Guatemala passport and identification card. Upon approaching him, officers immediately noticed signs of impairment. According to the arrest report, Perez Ramirez smelled strongly of alcohol and was visibly stumbling as he exited his vehicle.

Following standard procedures for suspected DUI incidents, the officers conducted field sobriety tests, which Perez Ramirez failed. He was then arrested on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and operating a vehicle without a valid driver's license.

Perez Ramirez's arrest adds to the growing concerns about impaired driving and road safety, especially in areas where emergency responders are working. The FHP emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws, particularly around accident scenes and areas marked with safety cones and emergency lights.

In response to this incident, the FHP has reiterated the critical need for drivers to exercise caution, slow down, and move over when approaching emergency vehicles on the road. These measures are not only legal requirements but also essential practices to ensure the safety of both the drivers and the emergency personnel working at the scene.

The incident has sparked discussions within the community about the dangers posed by impaired driving. Local authorities are using this case to highlight the severe consequences of such actions and to promote awareness about the importance of responsible driving.

Perez Ramirez was taken to the Pasco County Jail following his arrest. He faces serious charges that could result in significant penalties, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, depending on the outcome of the legal proceedings.

The FHP continues to investigate the circ*mstances surrounding the incident and is working to ensure that justice is served. They are also reviewing safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The local community has been urged to report any suspicious or dangerous driving behaviors they observe, as public vigilance plays a crucial role in maintaining road safety. The FHP has also called for increased educational efforts to inform the public about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of maintaining a valid driver's license.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to combat impaired driving and enhance road safety for everyone. The FHP remains committed to its mission of protecting the lives of Florida's residents and visitors by enforcing traffic laws and promoting safe driving practices.

WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. - Early Sunday morning, a 23-year-old man from Dade City was arrested after sideswiping a patrol car on I-75, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The incident took place around 2:14 a.m. while a trooper was parked within a safety zone created by orange safety cones. The trooper was investigating a crash in the southbound lanes of I-75, approximately one mile south of SR-54. In addition to the trooper's vehicle, there were two Road Ranger units and two other FHP patrol cars present at the scene, all with their emergency lights activated to ensure visibility and safety.

Officials say that Elmer Joel Perez Ramirez, driving a black Chevy, was traveling south in the middle lane when he suddenly swerved and sideswiped one of the patrol cars. The impact of the collision caused significant concern among the officers on the scene, although no injuries were reported.

Troopers identified Perez Ramirez using his Guatemala passport and identification card. Upon approaching him, officers immediately noticed signs of impairment. According to the arrest report, Perez Ramirez smelled strongly of alcohol and was visibly stumbling as he exited his vehicle.

Following standard procedures for suspected DUI incidents, the officers conducted field sobriety tests, which Perez Ramirez failed. He was then arrested on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and operating a vehicle without a valid driver's license.

Perez Ramirez's arrest adds to the growing concerns about impaired driving and road safety, especially in areas where emergency responders are working. The FHP emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws, particularly around accident scenes and areas marked with safety cones and emergency lights.

In response to this incident, the FHP has reiterated the critical need for drivers to exercise caution, slow down, and move over when approaching emergency vehicles on the road. These measures are not only legal requirements but also essential practices to ensure the safety of both the drivers and the emergency personnel working at the scene.

The incident has sparked discussions within the community about the dangers posed by impaired driving. Local authorities are using this case to highlight the severe consequences of such actions and to promote awareness about the importance of responsible driving.

Perez Ramirez was taken to the Pasco County Jail following his arrest. He faces serious charges that could result in significant penalties, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, depending on the outcome of the legal proceedings.

The FHP continues to investigate the circ*mstances surrounding the incident and is working to ensure that justice is served. They are also reviewing safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The local community has been urged to report any suspicious or dangerous driving behaviors they observe, as public vigilance plays a crucial role in maintaining road safety. The FHP has also called for increased educational efforts to inform the public about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of maintaining a valid driver's license.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to combat impaired driving and enhance road safety for everyone. The FHP remains committed to its mission of protecting the lives of Florida's residents and visitors by enforcing traffic laws and promoting safe driving practices.