Newark police are searching for a hit-and-run driver who struck and injured a longtime city officer.

City Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose says the officer was retrieving items from his personal vehicle at the department's 3rd Precinct when a silver Toyota Matrix crossover utility vehicle struck him and his vehicle around 7:50 a.m. Sunday.

The impact caused the officer to be thrown toward his vehicle.

Ambrose says the CUV's driver stopped momentarily but then drove off, ignoring the officer's commands to stop.

The 46-year-old officer was treated at a hospital for undisclosed injuries and was released later in the day. His name has not been released.

Ambrose said they officer has served the city force for 15 years.

Police detectives are urging anyone with information to call them at 1-877-NWK-TIPS.