PSP charge man with DUI, illegal firearm after hitting barrier on Schuylkill in Lower Merion
A 41-year-old Philadelphia man faces charges–including felonies for allegedly carrying a firearm without a license– after Pennsylvania State Police found his SUV stopped in the median and partially blocking the eastbound left lane of the Schuylkill Expressway at 3:19 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28.
Randy Stewart told police that another driver had drifted into the left lane where he was traveling. Stewart’s vehicle hit the concrete barrier and had a flat tire, according to court records. The accident occurred at mile marker 333.7 in Lower Merion Township.
Stewart told police that he had been drinking at a friend’s party before driving, according to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Trooper Angelo Colon. Colon noted that Stewart smelled of alcohol, had slurred speech, and failed a field sobriety test. A breathalyzer test showed a blood alcohol level of 0.177 %, according to court records.
Along with DUI, Stewart was also charged with possession of a firearm without a license for allegedly having a tan Palmetto State Armory 9mm handgun with him, police said.
In addition, Stewart faces traffic offenses of parking on a limited-access highway, reckless driving, and careless driving, records show.
Magisterial District Court Judge John McMahon Jr. set bail at $10,000 unsecured. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 12.
