Nearly Head-On Crash with a Deputy
 
By PIO Ryan Wilbur
December 2, 2024
 

A deputy was nearly struck head-on moments after finishing his shift due to the actions of a 42-year-old Stafford man.

On November 26th, at approximately 3:21 a.m., Deputy D.S. Jett just finished his shift and was on his way home. While traveling eastbound on White Oak Road, Deputy Jett observed headlights coming directly towards him. A Nissan was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes with no indications of stopping.

Deputy Jett activated his emergency equipment in an attempt to get the driver’s attention. Slowly, the Nissan would veer back into the correct lane of travel. After witnessing the clear traffic lane violation, Deputy Jett went back to work and conducted a traffic stop. Deputy S.A. Fulford would respond to assist.

The driver, Donald Nichelson Jr., advised he did “nothing head on” when informed of the reason for the traffic stop. Nichelson had several signs of intoxication including the overwhelming odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath and extremely bloodshot eyes. He would advise he only consumed one margarita in a can, however, multiple open cans were located within the vehicle. Nichelson also had a prior DUI and a suspended license.

Nichelson was charged with second offense driving under the influence within five years with a blood alcohol content above .2, drinking while driving, driving while suspended, and reckless driving. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail pending his ability to participate in a bond hearing.