Drunk Trucker Takes Out Utility Pole

The driver of a tractor-trailer hauling carpet was allegedly drunk when he clipped a utility pole near the Heidelway Bar, causing a lengthy power outage in Heidelberg this morning.

Heidelberg police Chief Vernon Barkley said the driver was impaired at the time of the crash. Police charged Paul Ryan, 63, of Butler, with drunken driving and multiple vehicle citations after investigators said he had a .086 blood-alcohol level. Barkley said tractor-trailer drivers are not permitted to have a BAC above .04.

The tractor-trailer was backing down Oak Way when it struck the pole shortly before 6 a.m. today. Heidelberg fire Chief Joe Wissel Jr. said six homes and two businesses are without power, which Duquesne Light may not be able to restore until 2 p.m.

The wooden pole could be seen perched atop the trailer with wires utility streaming down from both sides.

The driver of the truck was not injured in the incident. The truck is currently stuck and crews are waiting for another driver to arrive before it can be removed. Washington Street is currently shut down and may remain closed for several more hours.

Police are diverting traffic down Oak Way while crews try to repair the damage.