Cop is seriously assaulted by falling tree during traffic stop

A Centerville police officer only has minor injuries after a bizarre incident during a Wednesday night traffic stop. Officer Jeremy Veach will be OK, Centerville Chief of Police Tom Demry said. But he said his injuries could have been much worse. “It’s a wonder he’s not dead,” Demry said. Veach had pulled over a vehicle driven by Candice Duffey at the intersection of Fifth and Ontario streets at approximately 11:16 p.m. Wednesday. Five minutes later, the reserve police officer that was with him began calling for backup. A large tree had fallen onto the hood of the vehicle, and hit officer Veach knocking him to the ground. Veach sustained some injuries and Demry said he was expected to miss his shift on Thursday. He said he is hopeful Veach will return to duty soon.