Two Oakland police officers injured by hit-and-run driver

Two Oakland police officers were injured by a hit-and-run driver Wednesday morning.

OAKLAND — Two Oakland police officers, one of whom was dragged more than 10 feet, were hospitalized  Wednesday morning after they were hit by a vehicle crash victim they were trying to help, authorities said.

Both officers were in stable condition and the driver is being sought.

Police said the officers responded at about 7:17 a.m. Wednesday to reports from residents of a vehicle that had crashed into a tree in the area of 12th and Castro streets and that the driver appeared unresponsive.

When the officers got to the scene they found the driver who appeared to be asleep.

As they were trying to help the driver, he woke up, restarted the vehicle and put it in reverse, knocking down the two officers and dragging one more than 10 feet, Officer Johnna Watson said.

The vehicle was last seen going northbound on Castro. Police did not release a detailed description of the vehicle or the driver.

Watson said what happened to the officers is particularly concerning, especially since law enforcement has recently been seeing “critical injuries and harm” being done toward police.

Police are still seeking the driver and the vehicle and Watson urged the driver to surrender to police.

Police and Crime Stoppers of Oakland are offering up to $7,500 in reward money for information leading to the arrest of the driver. Anyone with information may call police at 510-238-3426 or Crime Stoppers at 510-777-8572.

Check back for updates.