When people are driving late at night, or early in the morning, they might not expect to encounter many vehicles on the road or people nearby. But they should still keep alert and be sure to watch out for anything unusual.

One driver apparently didn't do that in East Franklin this week, and his or her actions resulted in a serious car accident. A police sergeant apparently pulled off to the left side of a southbound ramp off of Route 28 to clear debris. Even though he activated the emergency lights on his unmarked vehicle, a driver apparently failed to see him and struck him.

According to the Leader Times, the driver didn't bother to stop, fleeing the scene. The 50-year-old officer was transported to a local hospital and then flown to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. His condition has apparently stabilized after he was initially in critical condition.

Police have yet to find the hit-and-run driver and are seeking the public's help. They say the driver's vehicle likely has damage on the driver's side front portion. There is likely damage to the driver's side quarter panel and possibly the headlight, authorities say.

Officials are also examining video footage, possibly taken from the sergeant's vehicle, to try to get more clues. So far no information has been released about the vehicle's possible make, model or color.

As it is the only responsible thing to do, hopefully the driver who struck the officer will come forward and own up to what he or she did.

Source: Leader Times, "State police investigate hit-and-run in Armstrong County," Brigid Beatty, Feb. 3, 2012