COAL TOWNSHIP - A Shamokin driver escaped injury but was taken into custody following a one-vehicle crash Saturday afternoon on Route 901.
Cyrus Lewis, 34, of Shamokin, was transported by Coal Township Police for blood-alcohol testing after he crashed a Dodge Neon into a tree just east of Industrial Park Road.
According to Patrolman Matthew Hashuga, Lewis was traveling west on Route 901 when he crossed over into the oncoming lane of travel and then off the roadway before striking a tree.
At first, Northumberland County dispatchers reported the driver was trapped in the vehicle, but then relayed information that Lewis was out and the vehicle was on fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze shortly after arriving on scene.
After questioning, Lewis was taken into custody by police on suspicion of DUI. A 1.75-liter of Crown Russe vodka was found in the car and was placed into evidence by officers on scene. The Neon was towed.
Assisting Coal Township Police were officers from Mount Carmel Township, firefighters from Coal Township Rescue Department and Brady Fire Company, Coal Township Fire Police and AREA Services.