SALEM, MASS. (WHDH) - Two Salem drivers are facing their third operating under the influence charges after a pair of alleged drunk driving incidents during Salem’s Haunted Happenings festivities over the weekend. Both drivers separately pleaded not guilty at arraignments Monday.
Of the two incidents, one happened on Saturday night.
Officers responding to a reported pedestrian crash in the area of 318 Essex St around 7 p.m. found a 34-year-old woman who had been hit and dragged under a Toyota Rav4 and assisted in transporting her to the hospital with serious injuries, according to police.
She was freed from under the vehicle by concerned citizens, police say.
Vasiliy Orlov, 43, was arrested on charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, 3rd offense, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of a crash with property damage, according to police.
Then, around 12:30 a.m. Sunday, officers were nearly struck by a black BMW 535XI that was speeding down Washington Street toward New Derby Street. The driver, Vincent Roub, 47, of Salem, was arrested on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, 3rd offense, negligent operation, and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, subsequent offense. He allegedly almost hit several Salem police officers.
Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo said the city has seen over a million tourists this month, and some neighbors say the Halloween celebrations are becoming too much.
“I think as the event grows larger and larger, we’re in for more problems of this kind,” said Sue Schopf, a concerned neighbor.
In a statement, police said, “The Salem Police Department urges individuals to drink responsibly, and never to drive a car under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This time of year, the City of Salem is filled with people enjoying the season. The Salem Police Department is committed to detecting and arresting those who choose to get behind the wheel while impaired.”
The mayor echoed the sentiments.
“Don’t do it,” Pangallo said about drinking and driving. “Uber, Lyft. If you’re going to go out and spend some money to have some drinks, spend some money to get home safe.”
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