OAKHURST — A man who crashed into a power pole on Road 425B yesterday, knocking out power to over 500 residents, was arrested on suspicion of DUI.
Michael Womack II, 27, of Coarsegold, was just west of Stillmeadow Drive in a 1997 Toyota Camry at a stated speed of 30 mph when, due to his high level of intoxication, he veered off the road and hit a power pole, according to CHP.
Michael Womack II booking shot 2011 Madera County Jail
As a result of the collision, the pole was dislodged from the ground causing two power lines to touch, dropping sparks into the dry vegetation below and starting a fire.
The fire was contained at about one-quarter acre, but power was out for over 500 customers until PG&E could get it restored later in the evening.
Sierra Ambulance responded, but Womack refused medical treatment and was taken to the Madera County Department of Corrections and booked for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Womack was previously arrested for DUI in November 2010.
