Caught On Tape: Alleged Drunk Driver Plows Into Cars, Police Cruiser At Busy Montgomery Township Intersection
By Walt Hunter
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Montgomery County officials say patrol car video from a DUI crash June 17th sends a warning to those who might consider driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs during the July 4th holiday weekend.
Police Chief Scott Bendig of Montgomery Township says the video shows a vehicle driven by alleged drunk driver Phillip Marress racing out of the darkness at a busy, multi-lane intersection then plowing into four cars stopped at the intersection, including the police cruiser.
"There's very little braking if any, he just crashes through and starts hitting cars," Chief Bendig told CBS 3's Walt Hunter.
"This could have been catastrophic," the Chief added. "Fortunately, no one was seriously injured."
Marress, who lives in Tennessee and was not available for comment, is now free after posting bail.
Officers who approached his overturned car say he told them he didn't understand why everyone was so upset about the incident.
In the arrest warrant, an officer stated, "He did not appear the least bit concerned over the situation…telling ambulance personnel that he had a double shot and two beers, and he takes Percocet."
Chief Bendig says he hopes impaired drivers will stay off the highways and report anyone they see who appears to be driving under the influence.
The video, the chief says, shows just how sudden and destructive a DUI crash can be.
