PRINCETON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – At approximately 12:30 am, members of the Princeton Police Department responded to a motor vehicle crash report in the area of Mercer Street and Dick Copeland Town Square Park.
Upon arrival, officers observed extensive damage to the park (pictured) by an apparent high-speed crash. Officers could follow a fluid trail from the vehicle where it had fled the scene.
A short time later, officers located the vehicle resting on the sidewalk near Mercer Street and North 5th Street and made contact with the driver, Bryan Lucas. While speaking with Mr. Lucas, officers became aware that he smelled of an alcoholic beverage as he became uncooperative. While placing Mr. Lucas under arrest, a particular vehicle pulled up to the active scene. At that time, Tamara Payne exited the driver’s seat and began yelling at officers with slurred speech as she approached and identified herself as Mr. Lucas’ sister. Ms. Payne was ordered to wait by her vehicle but refused. Ms. Payne was then also arrested for Obstructing and DUI.
Along with DUI, Mr. Lucas was also charged with leaving the scene of an accident with property damage and felon in possession of a firearm.
Patrolmen J.D. Shrewsbury and R.S. Dyson are the investigating officers.