Just after 8:30 PM last night, SRPD Officers were dispatched to a collision at the Third Street and B Street intersection. It was learned that a driver, who was under the influence of alcohol, had been traveling at a high rate of speed westbound on Third Street and ran the red traffic signal light at the intersection with B Street.
The DUI vehicle broadsided into another vehicle that had been driving on B Street through the green traffic signal light and pushed it into a signal pole. There had also been two pedestrians crossing the street at the same time, and they had to run to avoid being hit by the DUI vehicle.
The suspect got out of his car and attempted to run away. Several witnesses chased the suspect, who had minor injuries from the crash and could not get away. The witnesses escorted him back to the scene and waited for officers to arrive.
The driver and passenger of the victim’s vehicle received minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for additional treatment. The 18-year-old suspect driver did not pass field sobriety tests and was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested and booked into jail for felony DUI resulting in an injury collision and felony hit-and-run.
This is another unfortunate example of why it is illegal to drive while under the influence. While there were only minor injuries in this incident, other incidents have ended in tragedy, with lives lost. Plan ahead and if you choose to drink alcohol, use recreational drugs, or take impairing prescriptions, it is a must that you have a designated sober driver, use a rideshare service, or use public transportation. “Choosing a sober driver is not just about following the law; it’s about saving lives,” Traffic Sergeant Scott Ingels said. If you see someone who appears impaired or is driving recklessly, call 9-1-1.
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