A man is facing criminal charges after allegedly driving his vehicle into a fountain. Wilmington police arrested the driver, suspecting him of DWI. He was traveling in a Suzuki with three other people when he hit the fountain. One person was injured in the crash and taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The fountain was located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Market Street and is apparently a city landmark. The driver was taken into custody, but the man’s other two passengers left the scene of the accident before police arrived. The crash caused significant damage to the fountain, which is and is expected to stay off until repairs are completed.
Although the man was arrested under suspicion of being intoxicated behind the wheel, there is no indication of the specific charges filed. Reports do not clarify if the man was administered a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer at the scene of the accident. There is also no word on whether the man has posted bond.
A DWI conviction can significantly alter someone’s life, so it is important for this driver and anyone facing similar charges to understand his legal rights as they pertain to any charges made against him. These types of accidents can occur for many reasons, including vehicle malfunction or maneuvering to avoid other vehicles or obstacles. In addition, many accidents are caused when the driver is suffering from any of a wide range of health conditions. He will have the opportunity to address the charges against him in a Wilmington court and mount a relevant criminal defense to clear his name.
Source: Star News Online, “Suspected drunk driver crashes into Market Street fountain,” Brian Freskos , Aug. 6, 2012
