Bedford Man Busted Following Crash that Caused Power Outage

This article was written by NH Regional Editor Marc Fortier and posted by Ryan O'Connor.

A Bedford man is facing multiple charges after crashing into a utility pole on Parkhurst Road on Thursday night.

Richard Tombs, 48, of 21 Proctor Road, Bedford is charged with aggravated operating under the influence of liquor, conduct after an accident and possession of marijuana.

According to Merrimack Police, Merrimack police and fire responded to the area of 54 Parkhurst Road for a report of a single motor vehicle crash. Responding units were advised that the vehicle involved had left the scene after severing a utility pole in half, leaving the pole and wires in the road and knocking out power to area homes.

Responding units checked the area and were able to locate the involved vehicle, a Ford F-150 Raptor, with extensive front end damage and airbag deployment at an address on Proctor Road in Bedford. Investigating officers spoke with the operator, identified as Tombs, who showed signs of impairment. After a brief investigation, which included field sobriety tests, he was arrested for operating under the influence of liquor. Once in custody, he was also found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana.

Tombs were released on $2,000 personal recognizance bail. He is scheduled to appear before the 9th circuit court in Merrimack on Aug. 2 to answer to the charges.