OAKLAND, CA — A suspected DUI driver was taken into custody after crashing into a fire hydrant and power pole, causing significant flooding and widespread power outages in the East Bay, police said.
Deputies say the driver had been driving recklessly on March 14 when they struck the hydrant, causing it to burst. The driver came to a stop after crashing into a power pole, authorities said.
Video posted by CHP Oakland shows emergency personnel at the scene of a crash where a vehicle is overturned on its side. A fire hydrant is seen shooting water up in the sky while a large brown power pole lies along the roadway.
“Hydrant 1, Sedan 0,” CHP – Oakland posted in the video.
Officers responded to the scene and found the driver had been drinking before getting into the car, according to Oakland’s California Highway Patrol.
The driver was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence, police said. Police did not reveal their identity.
“Fortunately, the driver was not injured, but the outcome could have been much worse,” CHP – Oakland said. “This incident is a reminder that reckless and impaired driving puts everyone at risk. Slow down. Stay focused. Make responsible choices behind the wheel.”