Speeding Driver Arrested After Beer Break on Connecticut Highway
West Hartford, CT – In a startling incident early Sunday morning, a 23-year-old man from Brockton, Massachusetts, was arrested after being clocked speeding at 122 mph on Interstate 84. Authorities report that Carlos Gallegos-Loja admitted to stopping on the highway to consume a beer before continuing his reckless drive.
Incident Overview
The Connecticut State Police initially encountered Gallegos-Loja and his passengers around 1 a.m. when they were found outside their Chevrolet Traverse on the roadside. Although the officers approached to check on the situation, the SUV had left the scene by the time they returned.
Just moments later, another trooper spotted the vehicle racing down the highway at more than double the speed limit, which is 65 mph in that area. Gallegos-Loja was subsequently pulled over after demonstrating erratic driving behavior, including swerving between lanes.
Signs of Impairment
Upon making contact with Gallegos-Loja, officers noticed several signs of impairment. "He exhibited slow reactions and slurred speech," a statement from Connecticut State Police noted. During the investigation, open alcohol containers were located inside the SUV, corroborating the driver’s earlier admission that he had pulled over specifically to consume a beer.
Charges Filed
Gallegos-Loja failed a series of field sobriety tests and was taken into custody. He faces a slate of serious charges, including:
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Operating a vehicle without minimum insurance
- Improper lane usage on a limited-access highway
- Improper parking
- Driving without a valid license
- Consumption of alcohol while driving
Aftermath and Court Date
He was released on a $1,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on July 15. Authorities are stressing the importance of safe driving practices and the dangers of mixing alcohol with driving.
This developing story highlights the risks associated with impaired driving and the importance of law enforcement in maintaining road safety.
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