BEDFORD – A Bedford man was arrested Saturday evening after allegedly driving his truck into a building on State Road 37 and then fleeing the vehicle.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Lawrence County Police Department Officer Thomas Porter, the incident occurred on Saturday, April 26, at approximately 9:30 p.m. Officers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle collision into a building located at 9301 State Road 37. The reporting party indicated that the driver had exited the vehicle and run inside a building at the rear of the property.
Upon arrival, Officer Porter and Sergeant Robin Compton observed a white 2002 Dodge Dakota parked against the building. The affidavit states the truck was positioned on top of a damaged Center Point Energy gas meter, which was leaking natural gas. The vehicle had also reportedly struck two Duke Energy meter bases on the exterior of the residence.
The vehicle’s registration listed the sole owner as Mark Collins, 53, who was located by police at the back of the initial address in an apartment.
Officer Porter knocked on the door, and a man matching the description of the driver answered. The man identified himself as Mark. Officer Porter reported a strong odor of alcohol emanating from Collins, who allegedly exhibited signs of intoxication, including loss of bodily control by urinating himself, bloodshot and glossy eyes, and poor balance. Collins reportedly leaned against a porch pole for stability while speaking with the officer about the incident.
Collins allegedly stumbled as he stepped onto the porch. He failed several field sobriety tests.
Sergeant Compton also allegedly observed a partially empty 750 ml bottle of Kentucky Bourbon inside the Dodge Dakota.
Collins was read the implied consent and agreed to a blood draw at IU Health Bedford Hospital. Collins displayed poor dexterity and balance while changing his clothes before leaving for the hospital. Collins was placed in handcuffs and reportedly appeared confused, asking where he had parked his truck, even after being shown his vehicle against the building.
Following medical clearance, Collins was transported to the Lawrence County Security Center on charges of leaving the scene of an accident, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, and OWI endangerment.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the Probable Cause Affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
