MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Memphis firefighter was arrested Monday, Nov. 26, after crashing into a Shelby County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) deputy's car while driving drunk.
According to the SCSO, deputies responded to an unrelated crash at Hacks Cross and Lowrance Rd. While they were investigating the crash, a car crashed into the rear of one of the deputy's cars.
The driver of the car was Memphis firefighter Delandrion Todd, 38, who SCSO officials said appeared to be intoxicated.
The deputy car sustained minor damage, and there were no injuries, SCSO officials said.
Deputies searched Todd's car and saw that there were two young children in the back of the car.
The affidavit said those two children were Todd's sons, who are nine and five years old.
Deputies also found several empty liquor bottles and a handgun in the car, SCSO officials said.
According to SCSO officials, Todd refused to do a field sobriety test and was arrested and taken to 201 Poplar.
Todd was charged with child abuse and neglect, failure of driver to exercise due care, driving under the influence, open container law, and possession of a handgun while under the influence.
According to a statement from the Memphis Fire Department (MFD), they are aware of Todd's arrest and his charges.
"[Todd] has been employed with the Memphis Fire Department since 2015. In accordance with our standard procedures, we are conducting our internal investigation and do not have any additional information we can provide at this time," said the statement from MFD.
Chief SCSO Deputy Anthony Buckner asks drivers to slow down and move over when you see them working on the side of the road.
"This simple action can save lives," said Buckner. "By giving them extra space, you also reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that officers can do their jobs safely. Also, please remember to never drink and drive."
