A Barrington police officer was transported to the hospital after the vehicle he was driving collided with a pickup truck on Thursday, June 27.

According to police, the officer was responding to a report of an erratic driver on Sowams Road at about 11:15 a.m. when his cruiser collided with the suspect's vehicle. The accident occurred near the intersection of Sowams Road and Driscoll Lane.

Other police officers and EMTs responded to the scene to assist. Warren police also assisted. 

Rescue personnel transported the Barrington police officer and the other motorist to a hospital. 

Police later questioned the other driver, an East Providence man who was reportedly driving around Barrington looking for scrap metal in residents' trash. The East Providence man allegedly told police his truck's steering was not working properly, which is why it appeared he was driving erratically. 

Police said John C. Ponte, Jr. refused to submit to a chemical test, however. Officers then charged Mr. Ponte with DUI/drugs/alcohol — first offense and refusal to submit to a chemical test.

Police said the officer involved in the accident will be OK.