Amarillo Police Officer In Critical Condition Following Tuesday Wreck

APD Officer Justin Scherlen is in critical condition after a head-on collision Tuesday morning.

Scherlen was driving his police cruiser west on 34th near Georgia when a Jeep traveling in the opposite direction and without headlights on, crossed over the center line and struck Scherlen's police cruiser.

The wreck caused severe damage to both vehicles, the driver of the Jeep was able to walk away.

Officer Scherlen was taken to surgery yesterday with multiple injuries to his hips, legs, and back.  It took several pieces of specialized equipment to extricate Scherlen from the vehicle.

Although all expenses related to medical costs will be born by the city, the Amarillo Police Officers Association has set up an account at Amarillo National Bank to benefit the family with expenses not covered by the city.