Berks County man accused in DUI crash that hospitalized five waives hearing
Reading, PA – A 47-year-old Berks County man charged with driving drunk and causing a three-car crash that hospitalized five people, including his own son, has waived his preliminary hearing, moving the case to county court.
Dustin Clair Stewart of Ontelaunee Township appeared before Magisterial District Judge Raymond Sheller on December 8, where he waived his right to a preliminary hearing on 13 charges stemming from the September 8 crash. The incident took place on Twin County Road near Ash Road in Caernarvon Township.
Stewart is facing charges including aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence, DUI, endangering the welfare of a child, simple assault, recklessly endangering others, and multiple traffic violations. Prosecutors say his blood alcohol level was measured at 0.203% — more than twice the legal limit — two and a half hours after the crash.
Five people were injured in the crash, including Stewart’s 12-year-old son, who was in his vehicle at the time. Stewart himself was also hospitalized and placed in a neck brace. One of the victims suffered a broken femur, 11 fractured ribs, and two brain bleeds, while others reported pain and mobility-limiting injuries.
In court, Assistant District Attorney Kyle Linardo sought to modify Stewart’s bail to include monitoring for full sobriety compliance. While Judge Sheller denied the request, he issued a warning to Stewart about the consequences of violating his conditions. Stewart remains free on $25,000 unsecured bail.
According to police, Stewart told troopers he had been returning from a birthday party with his son and believed he may have missed a turn. He admitted to consuming two alcoholic drinks before driving. Charges were filed by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Chad Dohner.
The case will proceed to trial in Berks County Court of Common Pleas.
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Key Points
- Dustin Clair Stewart is accused of causing a three-vehicle DUI crash that injured five, including his son
- His BAC was 0.203%, more than twice the legal limit, according to authorities
- He waived his preliminary hearing and remains free on $25,000 unsecured bail