Driving Under Influence of Alcohol and Meds Suspected in Redlands Crash

A man is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and prescription medications when his full-size pickup struck two poles and went through two fences on Lugonia Avenue in Redlands.

The crash was reported just before 8:30 p.m. Nov. 18, city spokesman Carl Baker said.

Howard Shannon Howell, 42, of Redlands was driving a 2006 Toyota Tundra when his vehicle "struck a utility pole at Lugonia Avenue and Sixth Street, and crashed through two perimeter fences before colliding with a light pole at the intersection of Lugonia and Orange Street," Baker said in a statement.

The pickup passsenger compartment sustained damage and rescue personnel used hydraulic tools including the Jaws of Life to get Howell out, Baker said.

"It took firefighters approximately 30 minutes to free the trapped driver from the wreckage," Baker said. "The driver of the vehicle was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center by firefighter paramedics with moderate injuries. No other injuries were reported in the collision."

The California Highway Patrol received calls before the crash about the same vehicle going west in the eastbound lanes of Lugonia Avenue at a high rate of speed with a damaged tire, Baker said.

Investigators have determined Howell was driving under the influence of alcohol and prescription medications, Baker said.

As of noon Monday, Howell remained hospitalized. Police investigators forwarded their findings to the District Attorney's Office, Baker said.

Charges against Howell will be filed pending his release from the hospital and review by the D.A., Baker said.

Anyone with more information was urged to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681. Anonymous tips can be provided by texting 274637 using the keyword "REDTIP."

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