An Arizona Department of Public Safety Highway Patrolman intentionally collided with a wrong-way driver on SR 87, Beeline Highway on Thursday afternoon, June 23.

Trooper Pedro Rodriguez was responding to a radio call regarding a pickup traveling south in the northbound lanes near the Bush Highway interchange, about 10 miles east of Fountain Hills.

The woman driving the pickup, identified as Barbara McLaughlin, 46, of Phoenix, attempted to drive away after the initial collision. Rodriguez struck her again stopping her vehicle.

Rodriguez was able to render initial aid to McLaughlin and both were transported by ambulance to a hospital for treatment. Both were released the same day.

McLaughlin was booked into jail on charges of aggravated assault and criminal damage. Impairment is being investigated as a possibility.

AZDPS Director, Col. Frank Milstead praised Rodriguez for his actions.

“The heroic actions taken by Trooper Rodriguez prevented innocent motorists from being injured or killed by this wrong-way driver,” Milstead said. “This is the level of dedication that our troopers have in working to make Arizona’s highways safe.”