City Pays $1.5 Million Settlement After Police Officer’s 2017 Crash Leaves Lasting Scars

Shocking Incident Resurfaces as Bakersfield Reaches Financial Agreement

A years-long legal battle has ended with the City of Bakersfield agreeing to a $1.5 million settlement after a police officer’s high-speed collision left a civilian with life-altering injuries. The 2017 crash, involving Officer Daniel Brewer, sparked outrage and raised questions about police accountability.

What Happened That Night?

On October 12, 2017, Officer Brewer was responding to a non-emergency call when his patrol vehicle slammed into a civilian car at the intersection of Oswell and District Boulevard. The impact:

• Sent the victim’s vehicle spinning into a traffic pole
• Caused traumatic brain injuries requiring multiple surgeries
• Resulted in permanent mobility limitations for the civilian driver

Controversial Details Emerge

Court documents revealed troubling details:

1. Officer Brewer was traveling 20 mph over the speed limit
2. No siren was activated despite approaching a busy intersection
3. Dashboard camera footage showed delayed medical response

Why This Settlement Matters

Legal experts note this case sets important precedents:

• First major payout for police-related traffic incidents in Kern County
• Establishes clearer liability standards for emergency vehicle operations
• May prompt policy changes regarding high-speed responses

What’s Next?

While the financial chapter closes, questions remain about officer training protocols and whether enough has been done to prevent similar incidents. The Bakersfield Police Department declined to comment on whether Officer Brewer faced disciplinary action.

What Do You Think?

• Should police officers face criminal charges in preventable accident cases?
• Is $1.5 million sufficient compensation for life-altering injuries?
• Do emergency response protocols prioritize speed over public safety?
• Should all patrol vehicles mandate activated sirens during high-speed responses?