POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – A Memorial Day weekend evening took a chaotic turn late Saturday night when a vehicle crashed into a barbershop at the intersection of Washington Street and Orchard Place, leaving a gaping hole in the storefront and a woman under arrest.
The crash occurred just before 11 p.m. on May 25. According to initial police statements, the female driver claimed she was traveling south on Washington Street when she swerved to avoid a vehicle that ran a red light. However, this account conflicted with multiple witness statements provided to police and reporters from Mid-Hudson News.
Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle coming eastbound on Bain Avenue, running through the intersection at Washington Street before plowing directly into the unoccupied barbershop. The force of the crash left a large, jagged hole in the front of the business, though fortunately no one was inside at the time.
Driver Arrested at the Scene
Although the driver refused medical attention from emergency responders, she did not leave the scene unscathed legally. Police administered a field sobriety test on the sidewalk of Orchard Place, which the woman appeared to fail. Officers subsequently placed her under arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Authorities have not yet released the driver’s name pending formal charges.
Firefighters and Utility Crews Respond
The incident prompted a coordinated emergency response. Poughkeepsie firefighters quickly arrived at the scene but had to wait for Central Hudson Gas & Electric to shut off power before they could begin stabilizing the damaged structure. The crash compromised the integrity of the building, raising concerns about potential electrical hazards.
There were no injuries reported aside from the vehicle operator, who remained physically unharmed. Fortunately, no pedestrians or other vehicles were involved in the collision.
Investigation Ongoing
Police continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the driver’s claims about another car allegedly running a red light. Investigators will likely review traffic camera footage from the intersection, examine skid marks, and collect further witness testimony to determine the exact sequence of events.
Community Reacts
The crash shocked residents in the area, who noted the typically quiet nature of the neighborhood. “It was loud—you could hear the impact all the way down the block,” one resident told reporters. “I’m just glad no one was inside that shop when it happened.”
This accident serves as another reminder of the importance of safe and sober driving, particularly during busy holiday weekends when road traffic and pedestrian activity often increase. Police are expected to release more information following formal processing of the suspect.
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