Drunk Driver Takes Child To McDonald's In South Jersey: Authorities

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A 37-year-old man was arrested after driving his daughter to McDonald's while he was drunk on Saturday, the Washington Township Police Department said.

The man from Collings Lakes was charged with driving while intoxicated and endangering the welfare of a child.

At around 11 p.m., officers responded to a call from employees at McDonald's (5851 State Highway 42) for a report of a man who was inside with a kid and looked to be highly intoxicated.

Staff told police that the man slurred his words and was not able to walk straight easily.

According to officials, an officer was at the restaurant within one minute before conducting field sobriety tests.

The man admitted to police that he had alcohol that night and was taken to the Salem County Jail.

Another officer took care of the child during the arrest before she was safely turned over to a family member.

"Their willingness to get involved may have prevented a tragedy," police said in their appreciation message to the McDonald's employees.

Anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything regarding this situation is asked to contact JEBentsen@pd.twp.washington.nj.us.

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