Driver arrested after running into Idaho trooper’s car

An Athol man was arrested Tuesday after allegedly crashing into an Idaho State Police car and attempting to flee the scene.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office arrested Kyle M. Hodgson, 24, on charges of driving under the influence, attempting to elude police, leaving the scene of an accident and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use.

Hodgson is being held in the county jail without bond pending his first appearance hearing.

The collision happened about 6 p.m. at U.S. 95 and Prairie Avenue on the north end of Coeur d’Alene. The trooper was stopped at a traffic light when he was rear-ended by a passenger car, according to the sheriff’s office.

The driver then attempted to flee on Prairie at a high rate of speed, investigators said. After a short pursuit, the driver pulled over at East Prairie Avenue and North Rude Street, on the border of Hayden and Dalton Gardens.

Hodgson refused medical assistance at the scene, the sheriff’s office said. The trooper told investigators he was a little sore from the collision.

Hodgson has been arrested previously in Kootenai County on charges of obstructing a peace officer, probation violation, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without privileges.