The Driver Facing A DUI Charge In Crash That Caused Car To Catch Fire

LAS VEGAS – According to records received Thursday, the motorist facing a DUI charge who was rescued from a flaming wreck on the Las Vegas Strip seemed to be revving the engine, causing the tires to spin and the vehicle to catch fire.

According to court documents, Alexander Dawkins is charged with DUI, failure to properly maintain a travel lane or improper lane change, and failure to present proof of insurance.

Dawkins was detained at University Medical Center, where he was being treated for injuries sustained in a crash into a palm tree in the median at the Venetian Las Vegas, along Spring Mountain Road on the Las Vegas Strip, on January 27.

According to records published Thursday, police suspect Dawkins fell asleep in his automobile, which rolled through the intersection before striking with a palm tree.

“The driver then appeared to be pushing the accelerator on the vehicle as the engine revved and the tires spun,” police said.

Dawkins told police at the hospital that he had no recollection of the accident. An officer saw Dawkins’ eyes to be “watery and drooping.”

Dawkins has been charged with DUI. Police did not specify what substance they believe he was under the influence of.

Dawkins was rescued from the flaming car by a Metro police officer and a passerby.

Credits: 8 News Now