Suspected DUI Driver Severs Light Pole: Police

SANTA ROSA, CA — A suspected DUI driver is accused of hit-and-run in a collision with a light pole early Thursday morning in north Santa Rosa.

Shortly before 4 a.m., officers with the Santa Rosa Police Department were sent to the crash in the 1200 block of West Steele Lane after a community member called 911.

The caller reported a driver struck a light pole and was walking away from the crash site.

"Based on the information provided by the witness, officers were able to quickly locate the driver, as he was walking north on Range Avenue," SRPD Sgt. Patricia Seffens said. "Upon contacting the driver, officers noted he exhibited obvious signs and symptoms of alcohol intoxication."

Police allege the driver, Anthony Burns, a 24-year-old resident of Santa Rosa, was found to have a blood alcohol content of almost twice the legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Because of the severity of the crash, Burns was taken to a local hospital for medical clearance. He was then booked into Sonoma County jail on suspicion of driving under the influence, hit and run, and driving under the influence with a BAC higher than .08 percent.

"Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication is extremely dangerous and puts all community members at risk of injury or death, not just the driver of the vehicle," Seffens said. "Designate a driver or utilize taxi and rideshare services."