DUI driver struck utility pole struck in North Charleston during police chase

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A DUI driver struck a utility police in North Charleston early Monday morning while attempting to flee from Summerville police, the agency said.

Around 3:45 a.m., Summerville officers observed a vehicle fail to stop before turning onto Dorchester Road, according to Capt. Chris Hirsch, spokesperson for the Summerville Police Department.

A pursuit ensued before the suspect crashed into another vehicle and a light pole near Remount Road and N. Rhett Avenue. The collision caused the surrounding roadway to close lanes as crews worked to clean up the scene.

The suspect was charged with failure to stop before entering a roadway, DUI 1st, open container, failure to stop for blue lights, possession of marijuana <28g, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

They were booked at the Dorchester County Detention Center. Authorities have not yet released the name of the suspect.

Dominion Energy crews worked to clear the scene involving the debris from the utility pole. Paul Fischer with Dominion Energy said there were no reported power outages when the incident initially occurred.