DUI Charge For Darien Man In Head-On Crash That Sent 3 To Hospital: Police

DARIEN, CT — A 38-year-old Darien man was arrested on a charge of driving under the influence on Sept. 25 after he allegedly caused a head-on, two-vehicle crash that sent three people to the hospital for evaluation, according to Darien police.

Arrested was Michael J. Sheppeard, of Stanton Road, who was additionally charged with failure to drive right in the 5:20 p.m. crash, which occurred at the intersection of Old Kings Highway South and Andrews Drive.

"It was reported that a vehicle had crossed the double-yellow line of the roadway, striking an oncoming vehicle," wrote Darien police in a statement. "Officers arrived and observed a Ford Expedition in the westbound lane of Old Kings Highway South with heavy front end damage. The other involved vehicle, a 2017 Nissan Rogue, was in the eastbound lane and had also sustained front end damage. The three occupants of the Nissan, ages 39, 35, and 10, were transported to Stamford E.R. for evaluation.

"Through investigatory efforts it was determined that the Expedition was the offending vehicle, having crossed over into the oncoming lane. A witness told officers that the operator of the Expedition had attempted to leave the scene, but his vehicle was not operable. The operator of the Expedition, Michael Sheppeard, was standing near his vehicle where he was contacted by officers. While speaking with Sheppeard, officers observed that he appeared unsteady on his feet and the odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his person."

Sheppeard allegedly failed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, and was taken to police headquarters. At the station, Sheppeard submitted two blood alcohol content tests, the first of which measured .3021, and the second about 20 minutes later, .2986, both considered above the legal limit.

He was released after posting a $250 bond and is scheduled to appear in Stamford Superior Court on Oct. 6.

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