Maryland trooper struck in vehicle by alleged drunk driver

FORESTVILLE, Md. (AP) - A Maryland state trooper has been struck in his patrol vehicle by an alleged drunken driver on Interstate 495.

The trooper was taken to Prince George's Hospital by ambulance after his vehicle was hit shortly after 1:30 Saturday morning.

State police said a preliminary investigation indicates that the trooper's marked Ford Explorer was struck in the rear by a car while the trooper was parked behind a disabled vehicle on the outer loop of the Capital Beltway.

Police identified the driver as 51-year-old Maurice Gresham of Lanham. Gresham was charged with driving under the influence. He was taken to the Forestville Barrack.

The trooper was identified as Angel Ortiz, a 7-year veteran of the state police. He was treated and released from the hospital.