BASS LAKE – A mountain area man was arrested for DUI after crashing his SUV on a sharp corner on Road 274 this afternoon.
Herbert Rogers, 68, with addresses listed in both Oakhurst and Fresno, was westbound on Road 274 in a Ford SUV approaching the curve near Fawn Point.
Tracks at the scene show that he drove straight off the right side of the road, crashing down through a maze of trees and overturning onto a large boulder and a tangle of dead logs.
Fortunately the driver was able to call 911 for help and give his location because the vehicle was difficult to see from the roadway.
Sheriff’s deputies, Cal Fire and Sierra Ambulance responded along with CHP, and one-lane traffic control was put in place.
Deputies and ambulance personnel climbed down the steep, muddy embankment to help the driver out of the vehicle. He was able to make it most of the way up the hill with assistance and was immediately placed on a gurney, checked for broken bones and evaluated.
He was also asked to take a breathalyzer test and then placed under arrest for DUI and transported to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno for medical treatment. According to CHP, he was driving with a license that had been suspended or revoked.
A light-colored chihuahua was reportedly in the Ford when it crashed, and it ran off into the woods. It has since been located, according to family members.
The accident remains under investigation.
