Suspected DUI driver jailed in deputy hit-and-run crash

PALMDALE – A 43-year-old suspected DUI driver is in jail after colliding with a motorcycle deputy and then leaving the scene, authorities said.

Tanya Buckner was arrested at 7:20 a.m. Wednesday for felony hit and run and driving under the influence of a narcotic, according to Palmdale Community Relations Deputy Robbie Royster. The deputy, whose name was not released, suffered a broken clavicle and was treated and released from an area hospital, Royster said.

“The worst part is that the driver left the scene, didn’t even stay to check on the condition of the deputy or anything,” Royster said. “While accidents occur, leaving the scene of a traffic collision turns it into a crime.”

The collision happened around 7 a.m. Wednesday on Palmdale Boulevard, near 2nd Street East.

The motorcycle deputy was driving westbound on Palmdale Boulevard, at about 15 miles per hour, approaching 2nd Street East, Royster said.

“A 1994 Ford Escort being driven by the suspect entered the intersection and pulled out in front of the deputy,” Royster said. “The deputy swerved his motorcycle in an attempt to avoid contact with the car. Unfortunately, he was unable to get completely around the car and his motorcycle collided with the front bumper of the vehicle causing him to fall down.”

Royster said Buckner immediately fled the scene, but she was caught about 10 minutes later.

“The license plate of the vehicle actually came off the car and was found at the accident scene, that’s how they identified who she was,” Royster said. “While they were doing the investigation, they identified that she was under the influence of a narcotic, so she was arrested for both charges.”

Buckner remains jailed on $50,000 bail and is due in court Friday to answer charges.

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