Driver arrested in Paso Robles after fleeing scene of suspected DUI hit-and-run
A driver was arrested Monday after he allegedly hit another vehicle in Paso Robles while under the influence — causing injuries to himself and the other driver — and then fled the scene.
Peter Terence Wells, 49, of Bakersfield was found after his 2015 Jeep collided with a 2020 Ford truck at the intersection of Highway 46 and Golden Hill Road, Paso Robles police said in a news release.
The driver of the truck was conscious but complained of head and neck pain, while the driver of the Jeep, now identified as Wells, had run from the scene, witnesses told police. The driver of the truck was transported to a local hospital for treatment, police said.
Officers found Wells hiding in the Eagle Energy Gas Station Parking lot on Golden Hill Road, police said. Wells attempted to run from officers but was caught after a short foot pursuit.
Wells showed “obvious signs of alcohol intoxication” when he was placed under arrest, police said. He also had sustained visible injuries to his face from the collision, the release said.
Wells’ booking photo showed significant cuts on his forehead and face that appeared to have been stitched shut.
Once medically cleared, Wells was taken into custody at the San Luis Obispo County Jail on suspicion of charges of felony driving under the influence causing injury, driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content at or above .08, and obstructing a peace officer, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office inmate database showed.
He was still in custody as of Tuesday morning with a $100,000 bail, the database showed.
The Paso Robles Police Department asks anyone with additional information to call 805-237-6464 or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 805-549-STOP (7867), or text Crime Stoppers “SLOTIPS” with your message to CRIMES (274637).
This story was originally published March 25, 2025 at 10:02 AM.
