A driver, Keanu Armentrout, 27, of Madera was alleged to be over three times the legal limit for alcohol when he slammed into the back of another car Saturday on Ellis Street near Chapin Street around 9:30 p.m.
The car driven by Armentrout, a 2009 Chevy sedan, then burst into flames and was fully engulfed before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.
Officers said Armentrout struck a 2013 Chevy Malibu that had slowed to turn into a driveway with a 39-year-old man and 12-year-old boy inside. They were shaken up not seriously injured in the crash.
Sgt. Mark Trukki said unsafe speed was also a factor in the crash.
“Armentrout was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Anytime a driver is under the influence, especially three times the legal limit for alcohol, the potential for serious injuries or death can occur. Part of any investigation is also where the impaired driver may have been drinking at,” Trukki said.
Records show another DUI arrest for Armentrout in 2013.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the Madera Police Department at 675-4220.