The lawsuit, filed on 10/4 in Cape May County Superior Court, details Annette's severe injuries including to her back, neck, ribs, lungs, and shoulder, along with lasting nerve damage, chronic pain, and psychological trauma. Her child also suffered stress and anxiety after witnessing the event.

The incident occurred in 8/2024, when Annette was visiting the resort city of Wildwood, New Jersey, to celebrate her birthday with her family. Her trip turned into a nightmare when a Wildwood police officer ran her over during a patrol.

The complaint alleges that officer Saul Meghnagi drove a police pickup through a crowded section of the beach at approximately 13h27 on 24/8/2024, striking Annette as she lay sunbathing on a towel. Witnesses filmed the incident, and the video quickly circulated on social media.

At the time, Saul and his colleague, officer Alexis Koch, were responding to a minor regulatory violation.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene, shouting to alert the officers immediately after the accident.

Witnesses helped lift the Wildwood police pickup truck to rescue the woman who was run over while lying on the beach on 24/8/2024. *Photo: NJ*

Police bodycam footage, submitted as evidence in the lawsuit, shows Annette trapped beneath the vehicle, with only her right arm visible. Bystanders quickly converged, digging away sand and attempting to lift the front of the truck to free her.

In the video, officer Saul can be heard on his radio stating, "We need a jack." He then told the gathering crowd, "I think we should wait for the rescue team to arrive."

After several minutes, Annette was extricated, placed on a stretcher, and transported by ambulance from the beach.

A disciplinary report from the New Jersey Attorney General's Office stated that Saul received a 10-day suspension following the accident. The report, which did not name the other officer, characterized the officer's actions as "unintentional."

Annette's lawsuit claims the officer may have been distracted, potentially by using a mobile phone, while driving.

The lawsuit further states that the police vehicle's emergency lights and siren were not active at the time, failing to warn pedestrians of its approach.

The incident has prompted questions regarding police procedures, accountability, and public safety on beaches.

The lawsuit seeks compensation from the Wildwood Police Department and the City of Wildwood for Annette's psychological trauma and medical expenses.

By Tue Anh (based on NJ, National Today)