Sault driver accused of running red light, crashing into retaining wall

The police building in Sault Ste. Marie is seen in this file photo. (File)

A suspected impaired driver who tried to walk away after running a red light and crashing into a ditch is facing several charges, Sault police said Tuesday.

The incident took place around 5:20 a.m. Oct. 11 when a 911 caller reported someone driving erratically and driving through a red light at Third Line East and Great Northern Road.

"Soon after, 911 communicators received a report of the same vehicle crashing into a ditch and damaging a retaining wall in front of a residence in the 0-100 block of Parkshore Drive," police said in a news release.

"Although the driver had walked away from the scene prior to officers’ arrival, they were located nearby. The accused did not sustain physical injuries."

Police quickly surmised the driver may be impaired, and the 46-year-old provided breath samples that registered as above the legal limit for alcohol.

Charges include impaired driving, dangerous driving and leaving the scene of an accident.

The accused was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in court Nov. 4.