DUI Driver Crashes, Leads To Fire At Pizzeria: Naugatuck PD

NAUGATUCK, CT — A Naugatuck man, Timothy F. Chapman, 27, has been charged in connection with an accident that led to a fire at a local pizzeria, the evacuation of nearby buildings and the loss of power for some residents, police announced Friday. He is charged with illegally operating a motor vehicle while under the influence, police said.

On Thursday, Chapman, of New Haven Road, turned himself in on an outstanding arrest warrant, police said. On Jan. 19 a Toyota Scion driven by Chapman was traveling southbound on Cherry Street (Route 63) when the vehicle "failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway and collided with a guide wire and utility pole," police said.

"As a result of the collision and damage to the utility pole there was a fire at Mario's Pizza - 123 Cherry Street, Naugatuck, CT. The incident resulted in the closure of the road, an evacuation of surrounding buildings, and loss of power in the area. Utility crews continued to work into the day to restore power and repair damage," Naugatuck police said in a news release.

The accused was evaluated at the hospital for non-life threatening injuries. There were no other reported injuries. As a result of the investigation it was determined that the "accused was operating under the influence at the time of the collision" and he is charged with illegally operating a motor vehicle while under the influence, police said. He was given a $5,000 bond.