Police: Petersburg man crashed car, punched responding firefighter

A Petersburg man is accused of crashing his car while drunk and then punching a fireman who responded.

The crash happened on Nov. 9 just before 8:45 a.m. in the town of Hoosick.

State Police said Nickifor Popov, 21, was driving west on Route 7. When coming around a curve, Popov left the road and struck a utility pole and several trees.

The Hoosick Falls Fire Department responded to help Popov and a passenger. Popov allegedly punched one of the volunteer firefighters and injured him.

The passenger also was hurt during the crash and treated on scene by EMS.

Popov was taken by helicopter to Albany Medical Center for his injuries.

He was charged with second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, obstructing governmental administration, obstructing firefighting operations, criminal nuisance, DWI and traffic violations.

Popov turned himself in on Nov. 14. He was arraigned in Hoosick Village Court and released after posting bail.