Published on: Thursday, September 27, 2012

By Daryl Buchanan

GAITHERSBURG-A Watkins Mill High School student remains hospitalized after being struck by a police car during a raucous scene following a local football game.

Friday September 21 several calls for police were made after fights broke out following a football game between Watkins Mill and Clarksburg. Eight police officers already on scene also called for back up to help move the crowd out of the area.

As back up officers arrived and were driving down Apple Ridge Road the female student stepped into the street between two police cars. She was hit by the second cruiser. Officers immediately gave first aid before she was taken to a hospital.

Montgomery County Police have released the name of the officer who is Corporal Raymond Bennett, an 18 year veteran of the 5th District. According protocol Corporal Bennett has been placed on paid administrative leave. Additionally, three other officers have been placed on paid administrative leave due to their part in providing care for the injured girl.

Officers have already spoken to witnesses of the collision, but they are seeking any other witnesses to the accident that have not talked to police. To contact the Collision Reconstruction Unit call 301-840-2435. Callers can remain anonymous.