News

Man ordered to abstain from alcohol after violent crash that took down utility poles

STONEHAM, Mass. — A man who was allegedly driving under the influence when he crashed and destroyed utility poles in Stoneham pleaded not guilty in court Monday.

Ryan T. Carney, 22, of Woburn, is charged with operating under the influence of alcohol and negligent operation of a motor vehicle in the violent crash that left about 100 residents in the dark early Sunday morning.

The crash was reported on William Street around 12:45 a.m., and when first responders arrived at the scene they found three utility poles that were destroyed in the crash and another that was heavily damaged and leaning.

"This is the most widespread amount of damage I have seen from a single vehicle crash in my career," Stoneham fire Chief Matthew Grafton said.

Wires were strewn about the roadway, and nearby was a 2009 Acura MDX that was wedged between a damaged utility pole, a rock and fence. A wheel and tire had also come off the vehicle and separated.

Carney has been asked to abstain from alcohol and will be randomly screened. Prosecutors pointed towards Carney's prior record of minor possession of alcohol.

One other vehicle was damaged in the crash.

Two men were also found near a home after the crash. They were evaluated and declined medical treatment.
Carney was identified as the driver and the other male, also a 22-year-old Woburn man, was determined to be the passenger.

Carney was slurring his speech and had a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath, according to officials.
He was arrested after being evaluated by emergency personnel.

"This is a very serious incident in which, once again, a person has too much to drink and gets behind the wheel of a motor vehicle," Stoneham police Chief James McIntyre said. "The result was an incredibly destructive crash, but somehow no one was serious injured today. We are grateful for that."

At least 100 residents were without power for hours after the crash, and the roadway was closed for most of the day Sunday.

No injuries were reported to any residents.

Carney was released on personal recognizance.