A MAN has been arrested after a crash on the M8 sent several people to hospital and left a police officer fighting for his life.
The three-car collision occurred on the eastbound motorway near junction 13 around 1.10 on Wednesday.
A 27-year-old man who left the scene was arrested in connection with alleged road traffic offences.
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He was released pending further inquiries but has since been arrested and charged in connection with an unrelated matter.
He is expected to appear in Glasgow Sheriff Court on Friday.
Seven people were sent to hospital after a Mercedes A45 ploughed into an unmarked Volvo S90 police car and a Mercedes CLS on the motorway's hard shoulder.
A 48-year-old officer and a 43-year-old in the CLS remain in critical condition in hospital.
A 38-year-old officer and a 31-year-old man, also an occupant of the CLS, have both been discharged following treatment.
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Three men were in the A45, aged 27, 33 and 39. All three, including the man arrested, were taken to hospital.
The 39-year-old remains in critical condition, while the 33-year-old is in serious condition.
Police Scotland has refused to comment on the circumstances as the crash, which has been referred to Police Investigations and Review Commissioner.
The eastbound carriageway was closed for around 12 hours to allow inquiries to be carried out.
Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Head of Road Policing for Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts remain with our colleagues and members of the public who were injured in this incident.
“The collision occurred on a busy part of the M8 during the middle of the day. I am appealing to anyone who saw what happened or has information, and has not already spoken to officers, to please come forward.
“Additionally, please contact us if you have any dashcam or CCTV footage relating to this incident that could assist our investigation.
“Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened.”
Information can be passed to Police Scotland by calling 101 and quoting reference number 1672 of 24 July.
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