Athens police rescue residents after vehicle crashes into home driver charged with DUI
A man was cited for driving under the influence after a vehicle vs residence crash in Athens on Dec. 7.
by WICS/WCCU
Dec 30, 2024
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — A man was cited for driving under the influence after a vehicle vs residence crash in Athens on Dec. 7.
At 9:57 p.m. the Athens Police Department was dispatched to the 100 block of W Lynwood Dr for a vehicle vs residence crash. Upon arrival, an Athens Police officer was notified that multiple people were trapped inside the residence and the vehicle was on fire.
The officer was able to extinguish the fire and made entry into the residence, where he rescued a woman and child who were trapped beneath debris, while civilians assisted the occupant of the vehicle to safety.
Further investigation revealed that a 2004, red in color, Ford Ranger had struck a utility pole in the 700 block of N Main St, causing power outages in the area, and traveled through multiple residential yards before crashing through the front wall of the residence. Two people were transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
An officer was also treated on scene by Menard County EMS for minor injuries.
Subsequently, George Baugher, 63, of Athens was cited for Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident, Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle, and Driving Under the Influence.
