Motor Vehicle Accident Leads to DWI Charges for Chatham Man

A Chatham man is facing driving while intoxicated charges after a motor vehicle accident in Madison Borough.

A 51-year-old Chatham man was charged with driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated in a school zone and careless driving after crashing into another vehicle in Madison, according to the Madison Police Department.

Madison Police patrolman Patrick Strafaci was stopped in eastbound traffic on Main Street in Madison and heard a loud crash. Strafaci determined a vehicle several cars behind his had been rear-ended. After exiting his vehicle to investigate the incident, the police officer determined the suspect allegedly struck the rear of a white BMW which was also stopped for a traffic light on Main Street, authorities said.

While speaking with the drivers, Strafaci reportedly detected an odor of alcohol on the suspect’s breath and determined the suspect was operating his vehicle under the influence of alcholic beverage over the legal limit, according to Madison Police. The suspect, who was not identified, was subsequently charged with driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated in a school zone and careless driving.

The 51-year-old man was released to a friend pending an appearance in Madison Municipal Court. No injuries were reported in the accident.