Driver Takes Off From Suspected DUI Crash: Police

PETALUMA, CA — A man is accused of running from the scene of a Petaluma DUI crash early Sunday, police said.

Shortly after 1:15 a.m. Sunday, personnel from the Petaluma police and fire departments were sent to the scene of a two-car crash in the 1500 block of East Washington Street.

As officers arrived, they saw one of the drivers, Frank Powers Monachello, 40, of Petaluma, running southbound into a creek between E. Washington and Maria Drive, Petaluma police Sgt. Mario Giomi said.

Some officers searched for Powers Monachello, others helped Petaluma fire personnel evaluate two victims in the crash: a 58-year-old Petaluma woman who was driving the other car and a 55-year-old Petaluma woman who was riding as her passenger. The 55-year-old was treated for minor injuries at the scene and the 58-year-old driver was taken to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Based on witness statements and damage to the vehicles, it was apparent Powers Monachello was driving at an unsafe, excessive speed when he rear-ended the other car, Giomi said.

A nearby resident told police he saw a person enter his backyard, and then jump his back fence.

In light of this information, officers focused on a smaller search area and were assisted by a Sonoma County Sheriff's Department K-9. Powers Monachello was soon found hiding in the creek; he complied with police commands and was taken into custody without further incident, Giomi said.

Paramedics evaluated Powers Monachello for any injuries he may have suffered in the crash.

"He displayed objective signs of alcohol intoxication, and a DUI investigation was completed," Giomi said. "Officers determined Powers Monachello was operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision and that he had also sustained minor injuries."

Powers Monachello was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI, felony hit-and-run vehicle collision, misdemeanor reckless driving, and misdemeanor resisting/obstructing a police officer.

Powers Monachello was taken to a local hospital for medical clearance and then booked into Sonoma County jail.

A records search Monday indicated he has since been released from jail.

"The Petaluma Police Department would like to thank the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance," Giomi said. "Additionally, the Petaluma Police Department is grateful for the assistance from area residents who aided in the capture of the fleeing suspect."