Two deputies crash into each other

MADEIRA BEACH -- Two sheriff's deputies suffered minor injuries late Friday when their patrol cars collided on Gulf Boulevard.

Both deputies -- Deputy Patrick G. Harlen, 36, and Deputy Harry R. Harris, 39 -- had just finished responding to a call for service and were driving north on Gulf Boulevard about 11 p.m., sheriff's officials said.

According to investigators, both were traveling in the inside lane when Harlen slowed to make a U-turn.  Harris, however, pulled into the left turn lane, intending to come alongside the other patrol car, just as Harlen made his u-turn.

In the 14800 block of Gulf Boulevard, the cars collided, damaging both. The deputies were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.

As is standard policy, a sheriff's review board will examine the crash.

Jacob H. Fries, Times staff writer