On Saturday, May 18 around 10 p.m., San Marcos Police Officer Claudia Cormier was responding to an accident on Interstate 35 when she was struck by a suspected drunk driver in an SUV and critically injured. Cormier has lost her right leg, which had to be amputated just below the knee and has undergone several surgeries.
San Marcos Police Department Chief Chase Stapp held a press conference Tuesday morning, updating the public on the condition of the officer. Just 48 hours following the accident, Cormier was adamant that following rehabilitation she would return to her job as an officer.
“She’s got a long road ahead of her, as I said this is a devastating injury. But Claudia is a fighter, she’s courageous and strong and probably one of the most driven individuals I’ve ever known,” said Chief Stapp.
The driver of the vehicle was suspected to be drunk during the accident and was arrested with a DWI. According to Chief Stapp, he stayed on the scene following the incident and has been compliant in the investigation. The results of the blood test ran on the suspect to determine his blood alcohol level will not be concluded for several weeks.
According to Chief Stapp, there were several factors that contributed to Cormier surviving her life-threatening injuries. A nurse passing by the accident pulled over and helped stabilize Cormier by creating tourniquets out of t-shirts. The make-shift bandages helped to slow the bleeding and ultimately saved her life. Additionally, there was a local family that pulled over to provide aid and emotional support until EMS responders arrived on the scene.
SMPD wants to reinforce safety measures when driving around police stops by reminding people to move out of the lane closest to pulled over vehicles. If you are unable to switch lanes, they ask that drivers decrease their speed to 20 mph.
Donations are being accepted to support Officer Cormier and her family. Information on contributing can be found on the City of San Marcos TX- City Hall Facebook page. Donations are also accepted in-person or by mail to the SMPD located at 2300 I-35, San Marcos.