Drunk Driver Arrested, Four Cited After Police Find Beer in Car

Incident occurred in Berea, Ohio after officers noticed erratic driving and signs of intoxication.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Police in Berea, Ohio arrested a 19-year-old Avon man and cited four other passengers after finding three open cases of beer in their vehicle during a traffic stop. The driver failed field sobriety tests, and the other occupants also showed signs of intoxication, with slurred speech and glassy eyes.

Why it matters

Drunk driving and underage alcohol consumption are serious public safety issues that can lead to injuries, fatalities, and legal consequences. This incident highlights the need for continued enforcement and education around responsible alcohol use, especially among young adults.

The details

Police pulled over the Kia Optima after observing it making an improper turn and traveling in the wrong lanes. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers detected the smell of alcohol and noticed open beer cans in the center console and door cupholder. The 19-year-old driver failed field sobriety tests and was arrested, while the four passengers - an 18-year-old Berea man, a 20-year-old Berea man, an 18-year-old Columbia Station man, and a 21-year-old North Ridgeville woman - were cited for possession of open containers and underage alcohol possession.

  • The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on February 7, 2026.

The players

Avon man

A 19-year-old man who was the driver of the vehicle and was arrested for drunk driving.

18-year-old Berea man

The front-seat passenger who was cited for possession of open containers and underage alcohol possession.

20-year-old Berea man

One of the backseat passengers who was cited for possession of open containers and underage alcohol possession.

18-year-old Columbia Station man

One of the backseat passengers who was cited for possession of open containers and underage alcohol possession.

21-year-old North Ridgeville woman

One of the backseat passengers who was cited for possession of open containers and underage alcohol possession.

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What’s next

The Avon man will likely face charges for drunk driving, while the four passengers will have to appear in court for their citations.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible alcohol consumption and the legal consequences that can result from drunk driving and underage drinking. It highlights the need for continued education and enforcement efforts to promote public safety.