Published: October 24, 2008 10:01 am      

Directing traffic, city policeman hit by car

Veteran officer likely to be off duty several days after incident at Halloween parade

CUMBERLAND — A city police officer who was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic during Wednesday’s South Cumberland Business and Civic Association’s Annual Halloween Parade is expected to be off duty several days as a result of his injuries.

Patrolman Joseph Leedy, a 33-year veteran, was taken to Memorial Hospital, where he was treated for injuries to his left side, including his knee.

Leedy, 60, was released following treatment in the emergency room. He was taken there by Cumberland Fire Department ambulance, which responded to the 6:42 p.m. accident that occurred at Oldtown Road and Grand Avenue.

Cumberland Police Capt. Kevin Ogle said Leedy was directing traffic through the intersection when he was struck by a 1992 Chevrolet station wagon operated by Francis A. Mantheiy, 74, of Cumberland.

Upon impact, Leedy landed on the hood of the Mantheiy vehicle. He reportedly remained conscious after being struck.

Mantheiy told police he did not see the officer in the intersection as he drove southbound on Oldtown Road and into the intersection with Grand Avenue.

Police cited Mantheiy for negligent driving.

City police also arrested two men who were found fighting in the 200 block of Virginia Avenue shortly before 9 p.m.

Officers working the parade observed the altercation that apparently began in a nearby business and then extended into the street.

Police arrested John E. Appold, 49, of Cumberland and Michael P. Schell, 27, of Cresaptown, each on charges of second-degree assault, affray and disorderly conduct.

Appold and Schell were each jailed each in lieu of $5,000 bond at the Allegany County Detention Center.