A suspected drunk driver “almost struck” Vice-President Kamala Harris’s motorcade after driving the wrong way down a highway in Milwaukee on Monday. When police stopped the suspect’s vehicle, officers found an open can of beer in his vehicle, according to the arrest report obtained by a local radio station. After a field sobriety test, the unnamed 55-year-old driver was taken into custody for driving under the influence.
Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, was in Wisconsin for a campaign event alongside former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney in the town of Brookfield. According to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s office, the incident took place shortly before 20:30 local time (01:30 GMT) when officers saw a man in an SUV travelling westbound in the eastbound lane of Interstate 94.The driver was stopped as he approached the vice-president’s motorcade.
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According to an arrest report obtained by local news station WISN, when the man was told by a deputy he had “almost struck a vehicle in the VPOTUS’ motorcade, he was extremely surprised and had no recollection of entering the freeway”. “He also stated he did not have any intention of harming Vice President Kamala Harris or anybody related to her campaign. “According to the report, the man failed several field sobriety tests. No injuries were reported in the incident.
A Close Call on the Road
The near-miss occurred as Vice President Harris’s motorcade was traveling through a busy city street. According to officials, the motorcade was following standard procedures when a private vehicle, driven erratically, approached at a high speed. The driver of the vehicle reportedly swerved into the path of the motorcade, coming dangerously close to striking one of the cars in the procession.
Secret Service agents acted swiftly to avoid a collision, successfully maneuvering the motorcade to safety. Vice President Harris was not injured and continued with her scheduled events.
Suspected Drunk Driver Detained
Following the close call, law enforcement officers at the scene quickly detained the driver, who appeared to be intoxicated. A breathalyzer test reportedly indicated the driver was over the legal alcohol limit. The individual was taken into custody and faces charges of driving under the influence and reckless endangerment.
Authorities have not yet released the name of the suspect, but law enforcement officials emphasized the seriousness of the incident, particularly given the potential threat to the vice president.
Growing Concerns About Road Safety
This incident has sparked renewed attention to the issue of impaired driving, a problem that continues to pose significant risks on U.S. roadways. Despite years of public awareness campaigns and stricter laws, incidents involving drunk driving remain a leading cause of traffic accidents in the country.
“We’re incredibly thankful that the vice president and everyone in the motorcade are safe,” said one public safety expert. “But this situation highlights the ongoing dangers of impaired driving, which endangers not just the driver but everyone around them.”
Increased Security and Vigilance
While close calls involving high-profile figures are not unheard of, the nature of this incident has led to heightened security measures around the vice president. Secret Service officials stated that while the motorcade was never in immediate danger, they remain vigilant in protecting government officials from both intentional and accidental threats.
“Anytime there is an incident involving the vice president’s motorcade, it’s taken seriously,” a Secret Service spokesperson said. “In this case, our team reacted quickly to ensure the safety of all parties involved.”
Public Reactions
News of the near-accident has left many concerned about the broader implications of impaired driving and the potential risks faced by public officials. On social media, reactions ranged from shock at the recklessness of the driver to relief that the situation did not escalate into something more dangerous.
“Driving under the influence is irresponsible no matter who is on the road,” tweeted one user. “But it’s terrifying to think that the vice president’s motorcade was almost hit. This should be a wake-up call for stronger enforcement.”
A Reminder of the Dangers
While Vice President Harris was unharmed, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable risks on the road. Authorities continue to urge drivers to take responsibility when behind the wheel and to think of the potential consequences of impaired driving, not only for themselves but for everyone around them.
As for the driver, they now face a series of legal battles that could result in heavy fines, a revoked license, and possible jail time.
With this close call now behind her, Harris continues her duties as vice president, but the incident underscores the constant vigilance required to ensure her safety and the safety of those around her on America’s roadways.
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