The North Bellmore man who allegedly crashed into a Nassau motorcycle police officer and then left the scene issued an apology as he was being led to court on Sunday.

Investigators say 40-year-old Hussam Rajab was driving his Subaru in North Bellmore when he struck the officer at around 8:30 a.m. Saturday and then kept going. Police say Rajab was tracked down and arrested about 20 minutes later.

"I'm so sorry, it was an accident," Rajab told a News 12 reporter as he was being led to court for his arraignment Sunday. "Accidents happen. I panicked. I didn't know what to do."

Rajab said he was on his way to work when the crash happened.

The officer, who was on a routine patrol at the time of the incident, was rushed to the hospital. He was listed in critical but stable condition.

Investigators say Rajab was tracked down quickly because of key evidence that was recovered at the scene -- the front bumper and license plate from his car.

The Nassau PBA identified the officer as George Day, a 14-year veteran of the force who has a wife and children.

Rajab is charged with leaving the scene of an accident. Officials say more charges are possible.

Rajab was ordered held on $20,000 bond in court on Sunday. He is due back in court July 10.