Wrong-way driver hits 100 mph on St. Paul's Summit Av.

Article by: Star Tribune
Updated: September 7, 2010 - 9:19 AM

Fleeing police, he crashed his car after about 2 miles.

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A Woodbury man was in custody Monday morning after crashing his car while trying to outrun police, driving the wrong way at high speeds on St. Paul's Summit Avenue, officers said.

The suspect drove west for about 2 miles at speeds between 80 and 100 miles per hour in the eastbound lanes of the historic street before hitting a light pole, tree and granite bench at Mississippi River Boulevard just before 1 a.m., said Andy Skoogman, a police spokesman.

It was unclear if he and a female passenger were wearing seat belts, but neither was seriously hurt and both declined medical treatment. The man was arrested for fleeing police in a motor vehicle. He also had outstanding warrants for driving without proof of insurance and failure to appear in court, Skoogman said.

Police conducting DWI enforcement attempted to stop the driver after they saw him run a red light at Grand Avenue and Lexington Parkway. The driver drove two blocks and pulled over. As an officer approached his vehicle, he sped away, Skoogman said.

Officers pursued the suspect, but backed off after the driver turned onto the eastbound lane of Summit, heading in the wrong direction. They caught up with him after he crashed a few minutes later, Skoogman said.

No motorists were driving in the eastbound lanes at the time of the incident.

Skoogman said the suspect had been at a bar and that alcohol was a factor.

It is unclear what charges the driver will face. The female passenger was not arrested and is considered a witness, Skoogman said.

TIM HARLOW