LOCKPORT, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Niagara County Sheriff's Office announced an arrest has been made following a hit-and-run that seriously injured a volunteer firefighter.
35-year-old Matthew Hufnagel of Lockport has been arrested in connection with the hit-and-run, sheriffs say he contacted investigators through his attorney and agreed to meet with the sheriffs for an interview. He was taken into custody following the interview Friday.
According to deputies, the incident happened August 18th just before 10 p.m. The Rapids Volunteer firefighter was directing traffic at the intersection of Tonawanda Creek and Minnick Roads in Lockport following an accident.
The firefighter was wearing a reflective vest, had a lighted wand, and a blue light illuminated on the side of his truck. A vehicle, described as a newer white pick-up, approached westbound on Tonawanda Creek Road. The vehicle slowed, but did not stop, striking the fireman causing serious injuries. The truck driver then drove away.
Hufnagel is charged with leaving the scene of a serious physical injury accident, disobeying a traffic control device and disobeying a police officer or flag person.
The firefighter was released from the hospital Wednesday.
He is scheduled to appear in Lockport Town Court on September 3rd.
