CHP: Hit-And-Run Suspect Deliberately Struck Officer, Faces Attempted Murder Charge

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - California Highway Patrol has identified the suspect as 28-year-old Austin Berry Scott.

The new details were released during a press conference held early Friday afternoon.

RELATED: Video Shows Arrest Of Suspect In Interstate 80 CHP Hit-And-Run Crash

Investigators say Scott deliberately ran over Officer Michael Ericson. CHP Commander Andy Williams characterized the incident as "a deliberate attempt to murder an officer."

Scott was arrested in the Fairfield area after a chase.

CHP said Officer Ericson is resting following surgery. He remains in critical but stable condition and is expected to undergo more surgeries.

Williams said that numerous citizens and off-duty officers jumped in to help Ericson immediately after the crash.

Scott is from Reno, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department booking logs.

Washoe County authorities confirms that Scott has been arrested numerous times in the past, three times in Reno and once in Sparks, on numerous charges.

Scott remains in custody at Sacramento County Jail.

The incident is still under investigation. Anyone who witnessed the incident on Thursday is asked to call investigators at (916) 861-1300.