Berlin MSP Press Release

DATE & TIME: 12/05/09 @ 0930 hrs.
CC CARD NUMBER: 09-96-008217

LOCATION: 10000 block of Friendship Road (MD Rte. 452) nearest Cathell Road, Berlin Worcester County Maryland.

BRIEF RESUME: On 12/5/2009 at approximately 0830 hrs, a 911 call was received from a motorist concerning a vehicle off the roadway, overturned and underwater at the above location. The vehicle was said to be a SUV and it was unknown whether or not there was anyone inside the vehicle. Responding officers immediately plunged into the icy water in an attempt to gain access to the vehicle. Unable to breach the doors or windows officers awaited Fire/Rescue from Berlin. The vehicle was righted at which time the roof of the vehicle was noted as collapsed. Using Hurst tools and other rescue gear, the vehicle was accessed with no one located inside. Utilizing police and fire personnel, the immediate area surrounding the collision site was searched. Divers from the Natural Resources Police as well as the Maryland State Police searched the water in which the vehicle was found. No one was located. Troopers responded to the address of the registered owner, Timothy Dean Cooper (W/M 41 yoa). Upon their initial approach to the residence no one was located. Due to the investigation and potential of serious injury having been incurred by the occupant(s), access to the residence was gained. Upon entry, Troopers located Cooper unconscious and lying in his bed with severe injuries including head and chest trauma. With the State Police’s arrival Cooper awoke. Cooper was transported by Berlin EMS to Peninsula Regional Medical Center, Salisbury MD for evaluation. During the investigation, it was learned Cooper was picked up by a passing motorist and taken to Cooper’s residence. The Maryland State Police – Berlin Barrack is seeking information into who assisted in getting Cooper home from the collision. Those with information concerning this investigation are asked to contact the State Police in Berlin – (410) 641-3101.

CHARGES: PENDING

INVESTIGATING TROOPER: Tfc. Phillip Fort – MSP BERLIN

ASSISTING: Maryland Natural Resources Police, Berlin Police Department, Berlin Fire and Rescue