Pawtucket man arrested in connection to drunk driving crash that seriously injured passenger in Warwick

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — A Pawtucket man was arrested in connection to a drunk driving crash that injured one of his passengers over the weekend.

The single-car crash happened just before 8 a.m. Saturday on Warwick and Killey avenues.

Sgt. Aaron Kay said 33-year-old Filipe Barros was traveling northbound on Warwick Avenue in the left lane, when his car abruptly swerved and hit a utility pole.

Yasmibel Lora Pena, who was sitting in the back seat, was thrown from the car and seriously injured, said the sergeant.

The 27-year-old, who’s from Cranston, was taken to Rhode Island Hospital, where she is still being treated for her injuries.

Kay said Barros and his front seat passenger, 20-year-old  Glenyfel Acosta, of Providence, were uninjured.

The 33-year-old was charged with driving so as to endanger — resulting in serious personal injury (felony), driving under the influence of liquor or drugs — resulting in serious bodily injury (felony), DUI of liquor-BAC unknown — 1st offense (misdemeanor), and refusal to submit to chemical test — 1st offense (violation).

Police said alcohol and seatbelt use were contributing factors in the crash.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Warwick Police Department at 401-468-4200.