Dozens of residents in Lawrence, Massachusetts, were left without power Thursday morning after a serious crash knocked down utility poles.
The incident occurred at about 11 p.m. Wednesday in the area of Lawrence Street, where utility crews were seen in bucket trucks working to restore power.
Police say the driver, identified as 36-year-old Efren Alvarez, was driving drunk when he went off the roadway and took out three power poles, snapping them and sending them crashing down, yanking the power lines down with them.
Alvarez, a Lawrence resident, tried to run away on foot but was caught and taken into custody, according to police. He was treated on scene and taken to Lawrence General Hospital immediately after the crash.
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Alvarez was arraigned in Lawrence District Court on a slew of charges - operating under the influence, destruction of property, operating to endanger, speeding, marked lane violations, leaving the scene of property damage, attaching plates, and unregistered motor vehicle.
A judge ruled Alvarez will have to wear an alcohol-detecting bracelet to ensure he doesn't drink.
More than 230 customers were without power at one point. Nearby traffic signals were also knocked out, snarling traffic in the area during the morning rush hour.
Drivers were asked to avoid this section of Lawrence Street near Myrtle Street, as it may take more time to cleanup even after power is restored.
