EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — A driver accused of operating an off-road vehicle on a pedestrian walkway while intoxicated was arrested early Saturday morning on Aug. 22, after crashing into a barrier and seriously injuring a passenger, authorities said.
At about 1:48 a.m., El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 900 block of O.T. Smith Road for a motor vehicle crash involving serious injuries. Special Traffic Investigators responded and took over the investigation.
Investigators determined that a blue Can-Am Maverick was traveling northbound on a paved pedestrian walkway across O.T. Smith Road. The walkway is designated for pedestrian use only and is not open to motor vehicles, and pipe barriers are positioned along the center of the walkway to restrict vehicle access.
As the Can-Am approached one of the barriers, the driver, identified as 40-year-old Edgar Amaya, lost control and collided with the barrier, investigators said. The front passenger suffered serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Amaya was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, according to the sheriff’s office. He was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility, where bond was set at $5,000 and he was released later that day.
“Off-road vehicles are not designed for public roadways, sidewalks, or pedestrian walkways, and operating them in these areas puts everyone at risk,” Sheriff Oscar Ugarte said. “This incident is also another reminder that drinking and driving is never worth the risk, no matter what type of vehicle you’re operating. Make responsible choices, follow the law, and help us keep our roadways and community safe.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
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