A man in Phoenix, Arizona, was arrested after allegedly sleeping in the middle of a busy interstate. Reportedly, this almost led to a collision that could have been fatal.
According to a release issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on Thursday, May 25. At the time, AZDPS dispatch received multiple reports of a vehicle stopped in the middle of Interstate 10. According to callers, the vehicle had been nearly struck by traffic.
Upon arrival, Highway Patrol troopers found a silver car in the middle of I-10. Furthermore, according to the release, the man behind the wheel had fallen asleep.
With the vehicle still in drive, troopers intervened. They boxed the vehicle in to prevent it from moving forward. Then, they managed to wake up the driver.
Accused of DUI
An investigation followed, and troopers allegedly found an open container in the center console. Additionally, the release said that more alcohol was found on the passenger floorboard.
The driver, meanwhile, displayed signs of impairment, including an alcohol odor and bloodshot, watery eyes, the AZDPS alleged. Field sobriety tests were conducted, which confirmed the troopers’ suspicions.
The man was placed under arrest. No information regarding the suspect’s identity or charges has been released. The AZDPS, however, detailed that he had his driver’s license suspended at the time of the incident, in connection with a past DUI charge in early 2026.
Incident Reactions
Citizens reacted to the incident rather lightheartedly, possibly fueled by the fact that no one was injured. While some thanked the AZDPS for responding promptly to the scene, others took notice of the driver’s alleged taste in beer.
“The guys got taste, Voodoo Ranger, and a trip to the grey bar motel,” one commenter said. Another one said, “He got voodoed out. He has time to sleep it off now.”
Others, however, believed the man should never be behind the wheel ever again. One person wrote, “This is why one DUI should lead to a lifetime suspension of driving privileges.”
AZDPS Issues Warning
The AZDPS, meanwhile, warned the public that drinking and driving is extremely dangerous. After all, the driver described above was inches away from a collision that could’ve cost his life.
“Troopers thank the alert callers who reported this dangerous situation and helped prevent a potential tragedy,” the release said. “If you see something dangerous on the road, call 9-1-1 immediately so first responders can keep our highways safe.”
As said in the release, always plan when you know drinking will be involved during a social gathering. Always having a designated driver, a sober one, or even booking a taxi is the way to go.