Suspect charged with DWI, hit-and-run in Vance County crash that injured trooper

Trooper Craig I. Hundley was conducting a traffic stop Tuesday at 8 p.m. on U.S. Highway 1 when he was struck from behind by a Buick.

He was airlifted to Duke University Hospital, where he was listed in serious condition.

According to an emailed statement from Col. Glenn McNeill Jr. to the agency, Hundley has received a "positive prognosis" and doctors expect to release him from the hospital very soon.

"Please continue to keep Trooper Hundley and his family in your thoughts and prayers," McNeill wrote.

Authorities identified the driver of the Buick as 32-year-old Justin O’Brien Venable, of Henderson.

Venable was charged with felony hit-and-run, felony violation of the move over law, driving while impaired, careless and reckless driving and possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage.

He was held in the Vance County jail under a $35,000 bond.

Highway Patrol spokesman Sgt. Christopher Knox said Hundley was hit as he was approaching the stopped vehicle. The driver who had been pulled over called 911 after the crash.

Another trooper who was on duty nearby rushed to the scene and provided medical aid to his injured colleague, Knox said.

Venable was arrested about a mile away, Knox said.