Sep 12, 2021

Police: Kan. man fled from DUI crash with baby in carrier

Posted Sep 12, 2021 10:00 PM

Timothy Garcia.Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY
Salina Post

A Salina man was arrested on child endangerment and multiple drug charges after an incident in central Salina.

On Sept. 9, officers were dispatched to a reported accident involving a 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup and a tree in the 500 block of S. Fifth Street, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

At the scene, the officers were told that the driver had removed a baby carrier from the pickup and fled the scene on foot. Additionally, officer found a handgun on the ground outside the driver’s door of the pickup.

Witnesses told police that the driver fled eastbound. Officers observed the man later identified as Timothy Garcia, 36, of Salina with the baby carrier running east across S. Fourth Street into the 300 block of Center Street.

The subject then ran into the backyard of 310 Center Street and entered a detached garage, having placed an eight-week-old baby still in the carrier in the backyard of the residence. The baby was not injured and police arrested Garcia.

Officers also allegedly found approximately 768 grams of marijuana and 7 grams of cocaine in Garcia's possession. Additionally, an open container of Crown Royal was allegedly found in the pickup.

Police arrested Garcia on requested charges that include Possession with intent to distribute certain stimulant, Possession with intent to distribute marijuana, Criminal trespassing, Obstruction, Aggravated child endangerment, Possession of drug proceeds, No drug tax stamp, Possession of a firearm under the influence, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, No seatbelt, Improper driving on laned roadways, Transporting an open containe, Duty to report a crash and No proof of insurance.