WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and SportsSuspected drunk driver arrested at noon after crash

Suspected drunk driver arrested at noon after crash

Lake Hallie P.D. (Press Release) -- On Thursday November 05, 2009 at 11:55am the Village of Lake Hallie Police responded to a two vehicle accident on Business 53 at the intersection of STH-124 and CTH-OO. 

The Lake Hallie Officer on duty was informed that one of the vehicle operators was intoxicated. Due to the possible intoxication and the busy traffic intersection a Chippewa County Sheriff's Deputy was also dispatched to assist.

When Lake Hallie Sergeant Ken Taylor arrived on scene he was able to observe both operators. It was determined that the first north bound vehicle was suddenly rear-ended by a Mr. Michael C. Berry age 62. Mr. Berry was also north bound when he stuck the first vehicle as it was stopped and waiting for the traffic light to change.

Sgt. Taylor made the observation that Mr. Berry appeared to be intoxicated and had a strong odor of an intoxicant on his breath. Mr. Berry refused field sobriety tests but based on the observations and his poor driving he was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Mr. Berry had been previously arrested for intoxicated driving twice before, with the first time in 1994. He was transported to the Chippewa County Jail changed with his third offense. No intoxication level is available at this time as a blood test was conducted.

Most people are concerned about intoxicated drivers while travelling late at night. While it is true most of the intoxicated drivers are arrested in the evening hours this case reminds us that it can happen at any time.

Mr. Berry's vehicle was towed from the scene, and no one reported any injuries in this accident.  Mr. Berry indicated that he was travelling from Eau Claire to his residence in Lafayette Township. The other driver is from Fall Creek.