According to Pulaski County Sheriff Greg Speck, two Pulaski County residents were arrested after being involved in an injury accident on Sunday evening south of Burnside, Kentucky.

At approximately 9 pm Sunday evening August 11, 2019, 911 Dispatch received a call of a two vehicle injury accident in front of the Dollar General Store in Tateville, Kentucky.

Upon arrival at the scene of the accident, Deputy Tan Hudson found two pickup trucks involved in the collision as well as one victim suffering from injuries sustained in the mishap.  Deputy Hudson also made contact with a passenger from one of the trucks who advised that the operator had fled the scene in another vehicle. 

The Deputy observed the passenger, Dale Phelps, age 30 of Elrod Road, Somerset, Kentucky to have a strong smell of alcohol on his breath as well as appearing unsteady on his feet.  Mr. Phelps was placed under arrest for alcohol intoxication in a public place (first offense).

Deputy Hudson's investigation at the scene led him to Lakeview Drive where he made contact with a subject fitting the description of the individual who fled the scene of the accident.  James Hopkins, age 36 of Lakeview Drive, Burnside, Kentucky was arrested and charged with the following:

1.  Wanton Endangerment-1st Degree

2.  Operating Motor Vehicle under Influence of Drugs/Alcohol/Etc. .08 (Aggravating Circumstances) 1st Offense

3.  Leaving the Scene Of Accident-Failure to Render Aid or Assistance

4.  Driving DUI Suspended License-1st Offense (Aggravating Circumstances)

5.  Failure to Maintain Required Insurance (1st Offense)

6.  Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage in Motor Vehicle Prohibited

Both Dale Phelps and James Hopkins were lodged in the Pulaski County Detention Center without further incident.

The injured victim of the accident, Ina Whitaker, age 44 of Whitley City, Kentucky, was treated at the scene by Pulaski County EMS personnel and was transported to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Deputy Hudson was assisted at the scene by officers of the Burnside Police Department, the Pulaski County Rescue Squad, Tateville Volunteer Fire Department and Deputies from the Sheriff's Office.

The accident remains under investigation by Deputy Tan Hudson.