A Wiscasset man escaped serious injuries but not arrest in a one-car crash on Middle Road in Boothbay Harbor on Sunday, Jan. 23.

The Boothbay Harbor Police Department reports that Cainin Griffin, 19, was traveling north at about 3 p.m. when he lost control of his 1992 Honda. The vehicle struck a tree, caromed across the roadway and hit another tree and a sign, and finally ended up in a ditch on the opposite side of the road near the Boothbay Harbor Public Works building.

Officer Doug Snyder responded to the scene and arrested Griffin for driving under the influence, driving to endanger, not wearing a seat belt and imprudent speed. Griffin was transported by ambulance to Miles Memorial Hospital with minor injuries and he posted bail there.

His car was totaled. Both the passenger window and back windshield blew out in the crash and photographs from the scene show the roadway littered with items from Griffin’s car.

Chief Bob Hasch said it was extremely fortunate no other vehicle or pedestrian was involved. 

“This is the stuff that really gives the police nightmares. Someone driving out of control through a residential neighborhood, where families and children regularly drive and walk. We’re really grateful that no one was hurt. We  hope the court sends a strong message about this type of behavior. This is the type of situation we are always on the lookout for and try to prevent.”