Suspected DUI Driver Crashes Into Fire Truck, Flees Scene

April 14, 2025 – Gordon County, Ga. — A man suspected of driving under the influence is accused of ramming into a fire engine stopped in traffic on Interstate 75, then speeding away even as a passenger tried to get out of the vehicle.

The Gordon County Sheriff’s Office said deputies arrested 31-year-old Jacob Razo on charges including DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, and failure to maintain lane. The crash happened around 1 p.m. at the intersection of I-75 and Highway 41, where a fire truck was stopped with its lights flashing.

According to investigators, Razo’s car struck the rear of the fire apparatus with enough force to trigger the airbags and cause extensive damage to both the front and rear of the vehicle. Despite the collision, Razo allegedly drove away from the scene. A female passenger told deputies she was attempting to exit the car when Razo accelerated and fled.

A firefighter who was on the scene spotted the damaged car minutes later at a nearby apartment complex and alerted law enforcement. Officers found the vehicle with visible front and rear damage and deployed airbags. When they approached Razo, they noted he appeared intoxicated, slurred his speech, and repeatedly referred to them as “bros.” He also told arresting deputies he was “paying for it” — a remark investigators interpreted as a reference to the damage to his car.

The sheriff’s office posted a statement on social media noting that “fire engines are large, red, and highly visible in traffic,” underscoring the apparent recklessness of the crash.

Razo was booked into the Gordon County Jail and is being held pending a bond hearing. Court records show he has a prior arrest in the same county for obstructing peace officers, among other charges.

Legal and safety context

The case highlights the dangers impaired drivers pose to emergency responders. Georgia’s “Move Over” law requires drivers to slow down and move over a lane when approaching stationary emergency vehicles. Violations can result in fines and points on a license. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. involve alcohol-impaired driving, and collisions with emergency vehicles remain a persistent risk.

Legal experts say hit-and-run charges in Georgia can carry penalties of up to five years in prison if the crash involves serious injury or property damage. In this case, no injuries were reported among the firefighters or the passenger, but the vehicle sustained significant damage.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office.