Police: Schuylkill County officer assaulted, thrown down embankment

WEST PENN TWP., Pa. (WPVI) -- A Schuylkill County police officer was assaulted and thrown down an embankment, according to authorities.

Officials say West Penn Township Sergeant Melissa Ruch was driving along Route 309 when she saw a car on the side of the road.

She pulled over and as she approached that car a man grabbed her and threw her over the guard rail.

Ruch tumbled more than 35 feet.

By the time help arrived, the man had driven away.

Rescue crews retrieved her using a Stokes basket.

Ruch was flown to a Lehigh Valley hospital.

Her injuries are not considered life threatening.