Suspected DUI Driver Jumps Curb, Takes Out Drive-Thru Landscaping: PD

PETALUMA, CA — A Rohnert Park woman is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol Tuesday night when she jumped a curb and collided with landscaping in the drive-thru lane of a Petaluma fast-food restaurant, police said.

A concerned citizen flagged down a patrol officer at 10:48 p.m. Tuesday at North McDowell Boulevard and Old Redwood Highway and reported a possibly intoxicated driver was driving 30 mph on the freeway and weaving.

The caller followed the driver in a Ford Ranger as the pickup truck exited at Petaluma Boulevard North and pulled into the Jack In The Box parking lot at 1404 N. McDowell Blvd.

The witness described the truck and the driver and the officer found the Ford Ranger at the Jack In The Box. As the officer approached the driver, she started the truck and pulled into the drive-thru, according to Petaluma police Sgt. Mario Giomi.

"While navigating the drive-thru, the vehicle jumped the curb and collided with landscaping, ripping plants from the ground," Giomi said.

The officer stopped the driver who was identified as Ellen Eicher, 55, of Rohnert Park.

"Upon contact, Eicher displayed objective signs of alcohol intoxication and admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages at a bar in Cotati," Giomi said. "Eicher indicated she was on her way home to Rohnert Park."

Officers conducted a DUI investigation and determined Eicher was driving while under the influence of alcohol, the sergeant said.

Eicher was taken to Sonoma County jail where she was booked on suspicion of DUI.

"We would like to thank the concerned citizen who flagged down a police officer to ensure the safety of community members and other motorists," Giomi said.

The Petaluma Police Department remains committed to increasing traffic safety, especially reducing the number of alcohol-related collisions, the sergeant said.

"Petaluma Police advise motorists to plan ahead if you're going to go out and drink alcohol, designate a sober driver or share a ride."