The Antioch Police Officers Association has set up a fund for an officer who will likely experience permanent paralysis after being injured in a crash in Pittsburg on March 9, the president of the association announced Tuesday.
James Vincent, a six-year veteran of the Antioch Police Department, had been helping another Antioch officer pursue a parolee in a stolen vehicle. During the chase, Vincent lost control of his car and crashed into a house near the intersection of West Leland Road and William Way, Pittsburg police Lt. Brian Addington said last week.
Officers continued to chase the parolee, 36-year-old David Cole, from Pittsburg to Walnut Creek and Concord and then back to Antioch, where he tried to flee on foot but was bitten by a police dog and arrested, Addington said.
Vincent suffered a severe back and spinal injury that has resulted in permanent paralysis, Antioch Police Officers Association President Scott Freir said.
He said Vincent is recovering well from reconstructive back surgery but will face many challenges in his future due to the crash.
Donations may be made out to Officer James Vincent, in care of the Antioch Police Officers Association, at the Antioch Community Federal Credit Union at 301 G St., Antioch, 94509.
