Police Say Drunk Driver Hit Highway Median Wall at 100 MPH on July 4, Three Teens Inside

MILWAUKEE -- An incident involving a drunk driver on the Fourth of July could have been much worse, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's department.

According to an official report, deputies responded to a crash on Hwy-145 southbound near Grantosa Ave. on Milwaukee's north side just after 7 p.m. on Monday, July 4. According to witness statements, the vehicle had been traveling in excess of 100 mph when it struck the median wall.

Two occupants were initially unconscious, but regained consciousness when deputies arrived. The driver, Tommie C. Beeman, age 30, of Milwaukee, tested a .16 on a PBT and said he had consumed two to three beers, the Milwaukee County Sheriff's office has reported.

A 14-year-old male passenger suffered a broken leg and was transported to Children’s Hospital. Two other minor passengers, males age 15 and 16, were released to parents, authorities said.

Beeman was arrested on suspicion of the following charges - three counts of DUI-1st with minor passenger, DUI Causing Great Bodily Harm, Operating While Suspended Causing Great Bodily Harm, 2nd Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, and Operating with PAC-Cause Great Bodily Harm, according to authorities.

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's office has forwarded the recommended charges to the Milwaukee County District Attorney's office. Beeman, who is being held in the Milwaukee County Jail, awaits formal charging.

If charged with each of the offenses listed, Beeman faces up to 42.5 years in prison if convicted on all counts.