A truck driver from Kentucky is taking legal action against the Wytheville Police Department following an April 2023 incident. He asserts that the officers mistreated him during a medical crisis, which led to a crash.
What happened: On April 26, 2023, William Heim crashed his truck into an SUV on East Main Street in Wytheville, Virginia. Upon arrival, Sergeant Zachary Puckett suspected Heim of driving under the influence.
- Despite disorientation, Heim denied using drugs or alcohol. He was subjected to a series of tests, with a breathalyzer recording only 0.01.
No medical aid: Heim was not asked about medical issues or if he needed help. Instead, he was detained on DUI charges and spent almost 27 hours in jail.
- Heim's sister intervened, requesting medical aid. He was finally diagnosed with a stroke at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, reported WDBJ7.
- The late diagnosis resulted in severe, lasting injuries.
Lawsuit details: Filed in January 2025, the lawsuit seeks over $10 million in damages. It claims negligence by the officers involved, citing a lack of recognition of Heim's medical condition.
The Wytheville Police Department has acknowledged the lawsuit but withheld comments due to ongoing litigation. Notably, Heim's DUI charge has been dismissed.