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Darien Police say they responded to a report of an accident on West Avenue on Saturday, Sept. 21 around 9 p.m.
Initial investigation revealed that a gray Audi sedan had struck a utility pole and was on fire, police say. The vehicle was resting against a pole on the side of the eastbound lane of West Avenue with the engine compartment engulfed in flames, according to police.
Officers approached the vehicle, which was observed to be unoccupied. A witness allegedly stated that the driver was standing with a group of people that had gathered on Moore Street.
The driver, identified as Jayden Rufus, 18, of Stamford, told officers that he had been traveling on West Avenue from Stamford and lost control of the vehicle, police say.
When asked, Rufus allegedly told police that he had consumed alcohol and was traveling at a high speed.
Rufus was asked to participate in a series of field sobriety tests, which police say he did not pass.
Rufus was arrested and transported to headquarters. Police say a breathalyzer test showed a BAC reading of .172.
Rufus was charged with operating under the influence and making an improper turn. He was released after posting a $250 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Friday, Oct. 4.
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