PHOENIX — Witnesses pulled a driver allegedly under the influence from his burning car after a crash occurred near 26th Street and Carefree Highway, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO).
MCSO reports that on March 5 around 9:45 p.m., they responded to 26th Street and Carefree Highway for a severe crash involving three vehicles.
MCSO reportedly saw one car in the center median on fire. They also allegedly saw two other vehicles damaged and leaking fuel.
Witnesses reportedly told deputies that they pulled the driver, 47-year-old Cory Michael Strike, from the burning car. Strike allegedly told witnesses that he needed to leave before police arrived.
MCSO says Strike later admitted to drinking vodka earlier that day and using several medications for anxiety. MCSO says Strike's preliminary breath test registered a .163 B.A.C.
Witnesses say Strike's car rear-ended a car at a high rate of speed, then spun and hit another vehicle.
Court records show that Strike was driving on a revoked license, having been convicted of three DUIs in the past three years.
Strike has been charged with four counts of aggravated DUI.
