LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy was struck by a car Saturday morning in East Los Angeles.

Deputy Rudy Juarez,50, and two other deputies were investigating a stranded car when a driver in the westbound lane of 3rd Street near Downey Road hit him around 6:15 a.m.

The injured deputy, who’s a 17-year veteran, was transported to USC Medical Center.

“Deputy Rudy Juarez suffered a serious head injury and broken bones and is in critical condition. He is unconscious but breathing on his own. Doctors have said that what happens during the next 24 hours is vital.” Sheriff Lee Baca said.

“Deputy Juarez’ family members are with him and we join them in hope and prayer for a healthy recovery for this well respected deputy.”

Juarez is being treated for significant head injuries, broken legs and possibly other broken bones.

The driver of the car which struck Juarez pulled over.

CHP is investigating the incident but do not believe foul play was involved.

3rd Street was shut down for a couple of hours, but by 10:40 a.m. officers and deputies completed the investigation and the scene returned to normal.