Shelton, Washington – Car Crashes Into Building and Police Car, Driver Suspected of DUI

Shelton, Washington (June 23, 2019) – Two subsequent car crashes were reported on West Cota Street on Sunday night. A suspected drunk driver identified as Teresa Ramirez Pablo of Shelton crashed into a building and then struck a patrol car. Fortunately, the building was unoccupied at the time of the accident and the patrol officer inside the car was not injured. There were no other injuries reported in the incident.

The incident started around 11 p.m. when a patrol officer tried to stop the drunk driver on West Cota Street. The driver fled a t a high rate of speed, later crashing into a building at the southeast corner of South 2nd Street and West Cota Street. After crashing into the building, the driver reversed the vehicle, causing a collision with the patrol car. The driver was arrested soon after. The building was said to have sustained structural damage and will be inspected by the city.

About Car Accidents

According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people die everyday from vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver, which translates to a death every 50 minutes. Additionally, 2016 data also points to 28% of all traffic-related deaths in America. Driving under influence covers not only alcohol-impaired drivers, but also those under the influence of other substances. Drugs other than alcohol accounted for 16% of vehicle crashes in 2015 data. Marijuana use in particular is rising, with 13% of nighttime weekends drivers being found with marijuana in their system. Whether impaired by alcohol, narcotics, or any other substances, the dangers of driving under influence should be clear. Driving is an activity that requires awareness at all times and following street regulations as much as possible. Being under the influence of other substances brings down road awareness, as well as closing down reflex skills and attention.

We urge everyone to be in a stable health condition before going behind the wheel. Any condition that can cause impairments on your judgement puts many people at risk, which goes not only for drivers but pedestrians as well. Aside from the obvious dangers of drunk driving, it would also help to identify busy roads and try to avoid being in their proximity to minimize any risk of a vehicle accident. Any mistake can lead to injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well. Our sympathies and compassion for anyone who was caught up in a vehicle accident due to intoxicated drivers.

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