Pinellas Park Police

July 17, 2008
0600 Hrs

Traffic crash involving police officer

Pinellas Park Police officer Scott Martin was struck by a northbound Nissan Van while directing traffic in the northbound lanes of US 19 North at the overpass of Gandy blvd. At 5:45 AM, Ofc Martin was assigned to handle traffic control duties due to a traffic light malfunction under the overpass. Another officer was handling the southbound lanes. At 6:00 AM a northbound Nissan Quest Van struck the officer causing incapacitating injuries. Officer Martin was transported by ground to Bayfront Medical Center.

The driver of the Nissan Van that struck the police officer is identified as SENGTHONG LIAMSAVY, age 47, of St. Petersburg Florida.

The driver stopped immediately after the crash and remained at the scene. The driver advised that he did not see the officer because it was dark. He was on his way to work.

Power outages were being experienced in this area all night due to weather conditions. This affected the traffic control devices in this area also.

Officer Scott Martin is an 8 year veteran of the police department. He was wearing a reflective traffic vest at the time of the crash.

Officer Martin is being treated at Bayfront Medical.