Officer released from hospital following fiery motorcycle crash

FRESNO — A Fresno motorcycle officer, who was severely burned in a crash that occurred last Thursday, was released from the hospital Tuesday and is home recovering, according to a Fresno police spokesman.

The officer, 42-year-old Michael Roberts, was released from Community Regional Medical Center after being treated for second and third degree burns.

Roberts’ motorcycle crashed into a car near Fruit and Bullard avenues in northwest Fresno back on March 11. The motorcycle burst into flames and the officer caught fire. Roberts had to receive a week of treatment due to burns on one side of his body. He also suffered fractured ribs and a bruised lung in the crash.

According to Fresno police spokesman Jeff Cardinale, Roberts is expected to undergo several follow-up surgeries. Cardinale also said Roberts is expected to be off duty for an extended period of time to continue with the healing process.

In a news release issued by the Fresno Police Department, Chief Jerry Dyer offered his thanks to the public for their well wishes toward Roberts and his family during the recovery process.

Roberts is a 12-year veteran of the Fresno Police force.