Impaired driver crashes into Miami Beach police cruiser, authorities say

Damian Donaire, 22, did not brake before crash, police say

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. ā€“ An impaired driver struck a Miami Beach police cruiser over the weekend, authorities said.

Miami Beach police warned the public Tuesday on Twitter about the dangers of drinking and driving, posting: "In case you needed another reason to #DriveSober. A police vehicle was struck by an impaired driver last weekend. #DontDrinkandDrive."

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According to an arrest report, Damian Donaire, 22, of Surfside, was under the influence of alcohol early Sunday when he crashed his SUV into the back of a police cruiser in the 6800 block of Collins Avenue.

Police said the officer was sitting in his vehicle, which was stopped with its brake lights illuminated.

Another officer who was standing outside his patrol vehicle said he saw Donaire driving a white 2014 Land Rover at a high rate of speed before the crash.

After crashing into the police cruiser, the Land Rover struck the right rear of the second officer's patrol vehicle, the report said.

The second officer who witnessed the crash said Donaire did not brake before the crash.

Authorities said Donaire was unsteady on his feet, smelled heavily of alcohol and had bloodshot, watery eyes.

Donaire failed a field sobriety test. His breath test results were .082 percent and 0.88 percent, the report said.

He was arrested on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and DUI with damage to property or a person.


About the Author

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.

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