West Springfield Police District – A driver has been arrested after his vehicle struck a marked Fairfax County Police cruiser during a traffic stop on I-95.

On November 8, at approximately 4:15 a.m., an officer assigned to our DWI Squad conducted a traffic stop on southbound Interstate 95 near Fairfax County Parkway in Springfield for a reckless driver.

While the officer was speaking to the driver outside of his marked police cruiser with full emergency equipment activated, his unoccupied cruiser was struck from behind by a GMC Sierra. The vehicle was operated by Pedro Javier Patraca Jacome, 26, of Arizona. Thankfully, no one was injured.

The vehicle pulled over for the initial traffic stop was not struck and was later released.

Jacome was arrested and transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center where he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, DWI Refusal, Open Container, Fail to Move Over for Emergency Vehicle, and Obstruction of Justice. Jacome was later released on an unsecure bond.

This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers impaired drivers pose to everyone on our roadways, including officers conducting traffic stops and responding to emergencies.

Our officers remain committed to proactively removing impaired drivers from our roadways. As we approach 2027, impaired driving enforcement continues to be a year-round priority, focused on preventing crashes, protecting lives, and keeping everyone traveling through Fairfax County safe.


Move Over, Slow Down, Save Lives

Virginia’s Move Over law requires drivers approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing blue, red, amber, or white lights, or activated hazard lights, to take action to protect those on the roadside. This includes emergency responders, roadside service vehicles, and disabled vehicles. The law was expanded in 2023 to clarify that any vehicle stopped on the shoulder with hazard lights, flares, or caution signs is covered, not just traditional emergency vehicles.

Under Virginia law, drivers must:

  • Move over to a lane not adjacent to the stopped vehicle if it is safe to do so, or
  • Slow down and proceed with caution if changing lanes is not possible.

If you cannot safely move over, slowing down and exercising due caution is required. Failing to do either puts lives at risk and may result in enforcement action.

The Move Over law applies to:

  • Law enforcement officers
  • Fire and rescue personnel
  • Tow truck operators
  • Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) personnel
  • Other emergency or incident response workers
  • Any vehicle stopped on the roadside with activated hazard or warning lights

Moving over or slowing down takes only a moment, but it can make the difference between someone going home safely or not.Help Keep Our Roads Safe

  • Plan a safe ride before heading out. Designate a sober driver, arrange a rideshare, or use public transportation.
  • Never get in a vehicle with a driver who appears impaired.
  • If you are hosting a gathering, help guests plan a safe ride home and provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
  • Use caution when taking over-the-counter or prescription medications that may affect your ability to drive.
  • If you observe a driver who appears impaired, call 911. You may prevent a crash.

Impaired driving is preventable. Moving over saves lives. Every driver has a responsibility to make safe decisions behind the wheel.

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