Unexpected Collision with Canadian Goose Damages Salem Police Car

Salem Police car struck by flying object.

Photo courtesy: Salem Police

(SALEM, Ore.) - A Salem Police officer's windshield was shattered Friday night around 11:15 PM. It happened as Officer Jeff Keniston was westbound on State Street near Kettle Court, responding to assist another officer. The impact shattered the passenger side windshield of the police car.

Lt. Dan Deitz with Salem Police says Officer Keniston and a passing motorist immediately stopped to investigate.. What they learned was that the object that hit the police car was a large Canada Goose.

Okada says the goose was injured and they rendered aid. The stray flying bird was transported to the emergency veterinary clinic by another officer. Okada says Keniston was not injured.

This area of State Street is highly populated with geese and other water foul, Okada said. "While we seldom get reports of collisions of this sort, motorists are urged to drive with caution through this area."