Drunk Driver From Stamford Hits Patrol Car Monitoring I-287 Work Zone Before Fleeing

HARRISON, NY — An early morning collision on the highway in Westchester County led to a brief police chase, and the arrest of a Connecticut man, according to New York State Police.

On Friday, at 4:05 a.m., a sergeant, stationed in a work zone to protect workers and promote work zone safety, was hit by a drunk driver, according to NYSP. The sergeant was parked in the right lane of the work zone on I-287 east, in the town of Harrison, when he was sideswiped on the rear driver's side by a 2018 Honda Accord, officials said. The driver of the Honda, identified as 46-year-old David K. Wilkins, of Stamford, Connecticut, fled the scene of the collision, according to police.

The sergeant tried to stop the car, but Wilkins failed to comply, and a pursuit began with lights and sirens activated, NYSP said. Two additional troopers joined the pursuit, which lasted approximately four minutes and traveled approximately three miles with a top speed of 50 mph, cops said.

Wilkins was eventually pulled over on the right shoulder.

No injuries were reported.

Troopers report detecting signs of alcohol impairment and administered a field sobriety test, which indicated intoxication. Wilkins refused to submit a preliminary breath test, according to police.

He was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and taken to SP New Rochelle for processing. Police found empty and partially full bottles of liquor in the backseat of the vehicle, according to authorities.

In addition to the DWI charge, Wilkins was also cited for additional violations, including unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, failure to exercise due care to avoid colliding with an emergency vehicle, reckless driving, drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle on the highway, and operating motor vehicle without insurance.

The New York State Police took the opportunity to remind drivers they must pay extra attention, adjust speeds accordingly, and take every precaution in highway work zones.

State police also urged drivers to use the "STOP-DWI" Have a Plan app to help them get home safely. The free app, which is available for Apple and Android devices, allows users to contact a taxi service or ride share, program a designated driver list, or even report a suspected impaired driver.