DUI suspect crashes into utility pole while evading CHP in Thermal
Thermal, Calif. (KESQ) — An 18-year-old driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and evading police after a crash that brought down utility lines in Thermal early Tuesday morning.
According to the California Highway Patrol, officers were attempting to stop a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder traveling at high speeds northbound on Harrison Street near Avenue 63.
As the driver approached Avenue 60, he lost control and crashed into a stop sign and a utility pole along the right shoulder of the road.
Cal Fire crews responded to the single-vehicle crash near Harrison Street and Avenue 60 around 2:15 a.m. Firefighters reported downed utility lines and requested assistance from the Imperial Irrigation District.
CHP said the 18-year-old driver, who was alone in the vehicle, suffered minor injuries. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of evading police and driving under the influence.
IID also reported a power outage affecting 15 customers in the Thermal area, including near Avenue 60, Van Buren Street and Highway 86, as of 6 a.m.
The outage remained unresolved in the utility’s report, with no estimated restoration time available.
It was not immediately confirmed whether the crash caused the power outage.
News Channel 3 is working to learn more about the incident and when power is expected to be restored.
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