Man Tells Police He Was Overcharged at Burger King Shortly Before Car Accident and Fire Near University Campus
Bowling Green, KY – Man Faces Multiple Charges Following a Car Accident and Fire
In a shocking incident last Friday near Western Kentucky University, a man allegedly caused a hit-and-run collision, striking multiple vehicles and eventually causing his own to burn. Responding units from the local police department reported discovering widespread chaos upon arrival.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, the 26-year-old man, identified as Wade M. Tate, caused immense panic by driving recklessly across four lanes of oncoming traffic, narrowly missing several vehicles. After post-collision, he was seen exiting a 2000 silver Nissan Xterra, which was ablaze following the accident.
Witnesses told police that they observed Tate fleeing on foot towards Nashville Road, ignoring police commands to stop. He continued evading, resisting arrest until police tased him.
Witness Accounts
Several people reported terrifying accounts of Tate’s reckless driving. There were claims of nearly being rear-ended along University Drive, narrowly avoiding running off the road when he passed them. Some witnesses said he drove in the wrong direction on University Drive near Russellville Road.
Unusual Explanations
Controversially, after exiting the ablaze vehicle, witnesses reported Tate urinating near his car. When asked by police about his offense, he defended that it was an attempt to extinguish the fire. Officers found him in a confused state, exhibiting a ‘blank 1,000-yard stare’, and at one point, he mistakingly referred to an officer as his mother.
When asked about the reason for his erratic driving, he explained to the police that he had been overcharged for someone else’s order at a Burger King, which left him enraged.
Slew of Charges and current Status
Tate faces serious legal repercussions for his actions and was charged with multiple crimes, including operating a motor vehicle under the influence, first-degree criminal mischief, three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment, leaving the scene of an accident, resisting arrest and second-degree fleeing or evading police.
He is currently held at the Warren County Regional Jail with a $5,000 cash bond.
Important to Note
It’s important that we recognize the serious potential damage and harm that could have been caused by this man’s reckless actions. Not only did he put his own life at risk, but also those of countless others sharing the roads and sidewalks with him on that day.
Responses
This incident has caused public outrage, with many demanding stricter penalties for reckless driving and calling for extra policing around university areas. The local authority has assured the public they are reviewing the current situation and will be implementing additional measures to ensure a safer community.
