Driver Arrested for DUI and Passenger Hospitalized After Crashing Into Seven Parked Vehicles Sunday Evening

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) – A 32-year-old driver was taken into custody and their passenger was transported with moderate injuries after colliding with multiple parked vehicles while attempting to flee the scene of a traffic collision Sunday evening.

On Sep. 20, around 10:13 p.m., officers were sent to a traffic collision in the 200 block of McElhaney Avenue involving a driver who was attempting to flee the scene stated a press release from the Santa Maria Police Department.

According to Santa Maria Police, the suspect's truck crashed into seven parked vehicles before becoming inoperable.

A passenger in the 32-year-old's truck was transported to Marian Regional Medical Center's Emergency Department with moderate injuries and the driver was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence detailed the Santa Maria Police Department.

The local law enforcement agency shared that numerous community members called to report he incident and assisted in detaining the 32-year-old driver before the arrival of officers.

"Their quick actions and willingness to assist helped prevent the driver from leaving the area and potentially placing others at further risk," explained the Santa Maria Police Department. "SMPD reminds the community that impaired driving is preventable. If you have consumed alcohol or used any substance that may impair your ability to drive, do not get behind the wheel. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare or taxi, or arrange another safe way home. One decision to drive impaired can have life-changing consequences for you, your passengers, and innocent members of the community."