Ark. officer seriously injured after tornado throws cruiser

DIAZ, Ark. — A Diaz police officer is recovering after his patrol car was swept up and thrown by an EF-4 tornado during Friday night’s severe weather, THV11 reported.

Sergeant Richard “Dickie” Morris was inside his vehicle when the tornado, with peak winds of 190 mph, lifted it and tossed it several feet, according to the report. The car landed on another vehicle in a backyard. His police radio was ripped out, but he was able to call for help using his phone.

Chief James Thompson confirmed Morris was seriously injured, but he is expected to fully recover.

“Needless to say, the good Lord was watching over him,” Thompson said, asking for continued prayers for Morris and others affected.

At least nine tornadoes were confirmed in Arkansas on March 14, including seven in the northeast part of the state, according to the report.

Trending

Officer Down

Miss. deputy fatally shot while dispersing crowd, suspect at large

Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Terrian Bailey was fatally wounded and a woman was shot in the incident

September 08, 2026 09:29 AM

 · 

Joanna Putman

NYPD

NYPD recruit dies during training

Probationary police officer Kamir Loubarria collapsed while working out at the Stephen D. McDonald Police Academy; he was “committed to a life of service,” the department stated

September 08, 2026 10:56 AM

LAPD

150 LAPD cops crack down on massive street takeover, arresting 69 and seizing 200 cars

The response was part of"Operation Street Sweeper,” a coordinated effort targeting street takeovers; 570 people were cited and seven firearms were recovered at the scene

September 08, 2026 11:17 AM

Body Camera

Video: Woman fires gun in Fla. PD lobby, approaches officers with it before fatal OIS

Surveillance video shows the woman fire a gunshot in the Port Orange Police station lobby before walking back out into the parking lot and approaching officers

September 08, 2026 11:31 AM

 · 

Joanna Putman