Calera teens injured after drunk driver causes car crash

CALERA, Ala. (WBRC) – Calera teenagers were seriously injured in a crash Saturday evening.

The Calara police chief says the accident was caused by a drunk driver.

Daniel Moreno faces a drunk driving charge and several criminal charges.

This happened along Highway 31 and Whippoorwill Lane.

Chief David Hyche said it was a very scary situation that could have ended even worse.

His message to the community is to think twice before driving drunk.

Everything seemed normal for two Calera teenagers as they were leaving their homecoming party when suddenly a car entered their lane, causing an accident.

“One of our high school students was injured pretty badly, she had to be transported via a rescue flight and there was another injury besides hers,” Hyche said.

Chief Hyche said it was a thorough investigation, but Moreno was arrested just hours after the crash. “We had to do a homicide investigation on the road, but no one died. We have closed the road for an extended period of time and we hate to do this, but I hope the citizens understand that this is a very serious crime that has been investigated.

Moreno’s charges include DUI, 1st and 3rd degree assault, and leaving the scene of an accident.

“The real tragedy is the damage caused to the victims and their families. I wish people would think about that before they get behind the wheel after drinking,” Hyche said.

Fortunately, no lives were lost in this accident, but those who choose to drive under the influence will be held accountable in Calera.

Hyche thanks the Shelby County Traffic Homicide Task Force, Pelham and Alabaster police departments for their assistance in the investigation.

Get breaking news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.

Copyright 2024 WBRC. All rights reserved.