A Starr County deputy who was chasing a man on foot Sunday was struck by a driver passing by the scene.
The Rio Grande City Police Department and Starr County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to arrest Elmer Mercado, a man involved in a family disturbance who fled from authorities, according to Rio Grande City Police Chief Noe Castillo. The deputy was struck by a passerby in a vehicle during the pursuit.
The deputy underwent surgery Monday morning after sustaining an injury to his leg and remains hospitalized, according to information provided by Castillo and Sheriff’s Office Maj. Carlos Delgado.
Authorities arrested Mercado on charges of evading arrest and assault family violence.
An investigation into the auto-pedestrian crash remains ongoing.
