Man arrested on airport runway on DWI charges
Tuesday, March 13th, 2012Authorities say that a rogue vehicle crashed through a fence at an airport and the story is making national headlines. Pitt County DWI defense lawyers understand that the media frequently jumps on stories that involve allegations of drunk driving. While the so-called rogue vehicle story originated in another area of the country, it is important to note that a court of law in any location in our country operates much differently than the court of public opinion.
Media reports indicate a man drove through a fence at an airport in Philadelphia Thursday morning. Police claim that the 24-year-old driver drove up and down two runways at the airport before he was surrounded by authorities. Law enforcement reportedly deployed canines to check the vehicle for explosives, due to Homeland Security concerns at an international airport. The man’s Jeep checked out negative for explosives.
The incident reportedly caused air traffic controllers to divert aircraft at the time of the incident, including at least one plane on approach. Authorities closed the airport for roughly 30 minutes and roughly 15 to 20 arrivals or departures saw delays.
Police say that the man resisted arrest after being apprehended. Authorities say the man took a few swings at an officer while the man was being escorted to a jail cell after his arrest. Authorities say that two officers sustained minor injuries in the fracas.
The man is facing DUI charges under that state’s laws, although it is unclear what facts underlie the basis of that charge, or whether police believe that alcohol or drugs were involved. In addition to the DUI/DWI charges, the man is facing charges of reckless endangerment, resisting arrest and assault on a police officer.
Source: Associated Press via USA Today, “Police: Man drove through fence, onto Philadelphia runway,” Patrick Walters, March 2, 2012