June 8-Pedestrian Injured In Late-Night Crash

OCEAN CITY - An 18-year-old was charged with drunk driving over the weekend over striking a pedestrian on Coastal Highway in a late-night accident.

On June 7, at about 2:25 a.m., a 2008 Nissan Altima, driven by 18-year-old Russell Charles Mass, Jr. of Essex, Md., was traveling south bound on Coastal Highway at 60th Street when he struck a 44-year-old male pedestrian who was attempting to cross Coastal Highway from west to east.

The pedestrian was not in a crosswalk and alcohol may be a factor, the investigation is continuing.

The pedestrian who's name is not been released, pending notification of family members, suffered severe head injuries and was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. The driver of the Altima, Mass, was brought in for mandatory breath test. The results of the breath test were over the legal limit for alcohol intoxication.

Ocean City police have charged Mass with Driving Under the Influence and Driving While Intoxicated.

Ocean City police remind residents to not drink and drive. If you're going to consume alcoholic beverages, use a designated sober driver. Other transportation options include the use of taxis and buses to get you where you're going.

Pedestrians are reminded to use designated cross walks and to obey all pedestrian traffic control devices. During the hours of darkness, pedestrians should where light colored clothing and allow for extra time when crossing busy roadways. Parents should always make certain that they hold their child's hand when crossing roadways.

Officials urge visitors to walk smart and obey all pedestrian and vehicle traffic control devices.

For all the week's news, see The Dispatch on Friday morning.