Man charged after alleged hit-and-run in Bowling Green

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – One man is behind bars after an alleged hit-and-run in Bowling Green.

According to a uniform citation, on Saturday at 12:35 a.m., the Bowling Green Police Department responded to Que Pasa Tacos regarding a reported hit-and-run.

Authorities say a caller stated the driver of a black Honda appeared to have fallen asleep and struck the back of the caller’s vehicle in the drive-thru.

Police say the caller had spoken to the driver, however, the driver had left without exchanging information.

Authorities say the caller photographed the Honda’s license plate before the driver fled.

According to the citation, officers located the vehicle and made contact with 25-year-old Benigno Mar Santiago. Authorities say they detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from Santiago.

Authorities say Santiago stated he had consumed around five beers at a bar before going to Que Pasa Tacos and traveling home.

Police say the Honda had damage to the front consistent with the caller’s description of the incident.

Following Standard Field Sobriety Testing, Santiago was placed into custody and transported to the Warren County Regional Jail.

While there, police say Santiago’s breath test measured at .180.

Following medical clearance, Santiago was lodged at the jail on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, first offense, leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid or assistance, failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security, first offense, second-degree criminal mischief and second-degree wanton endangerment.

According to jail records, he has since been released.