Minnesota State Trooper Zachary Gruver of the Detroit Lakes District has been honored with the Exceptional Service Award for his decisive actions in halting a runaway vehicle in rural Clay County. On September 17, 2024, 18-year-old Sam Dutcher of West Fargo experienced a terrifying ordeal when his 2022 Honda Pilot malfunctioned, causing it to accelerate uncontrollably to speeds exceeding 100 mph. Despite multiple attempts, Dutcher was unable to slow down the vehicle. Recognizing the imminent danger, Trooper Gruver sped ahead of Dutcher and instructed him to deliberately collide with the rear of his squad car. This maneuver successfully brought both vehicles to a safe stop just outside of Hitterdal. Remarkably, no injuries were reported. Honda later inspected the vehicle and found no defects that could have contributed to the incident.
valleynewslive.com
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DL Trooper Honored with Exeptional Service Award
Feb 7, 2025 | 6:38 AM