Tempe troopers stopped a motorist on a busy stretch of U.S. 60 after reports of erratic, speeding driving that nearly struck other vehicles, then arrested the driver on DUI-related charges after a breath test showed a blood alcohol concentration far above the legal limit.
What officers say happened
The Arizona Department of Public Safety responded to calls about a vehicle driving dangerously on July 1 and intercepted it near McClintock Drive. After the traffic stop, the driver allegedly admitted to consuming several small bottles of liquor. A breathalyzer test returned a reading of 0.28 BAC, according to DPS.
During a search of the vehicle, troopers found about 25 “shooter” bottles of peppermint schnapps, including six empty mini bottles. The driver was taken into custody; authorities did not immediately release the person’s identity.
Local context and public-safety implications
For Tempe residents who use U.S. 60 — a major arterial connecting the East Valley — the stop is a reminder of how quickly a dangerous driving situation can develop on high-speed roadways. A 0.28 BAC is roughly three to four times the state’s legal driving limit and indicates severe impairment that can include poor motor control and loss of judgment.
- Incident date reported by DPS: July 1
- Location of stop: U.S. 60 near McClintock Drive
- Items recovered: about 25 peppermint schnapps mini bottles (six empty)
- Breath test: 0.28 BAC
“DPS said the driver showed ‘obvious signs of impairment,’”
Enforcement and follow-up
The driver faces DUI-related charges. State troopers often release limited details immediately after an arrest, and identity information was not available at the time of the report. Local prosecutors will determine charges and next steps once formal booking and evidence processing are complete.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Roadway | U.S. 60 (near McClintock Drive) |
| Alcohol level | 0.28 BAC (per DPS) |
| Alcohol found | ~25 peppermint schnapps mini bottles (6 empty) |
As the case moves through the legal system, Tempe motorists should expect continued enforcement on major corridors and be reminded that even small, single-serving bottles can add up — and carry serious legal and safety consequences when consumed before driving.
