A Hartford woman involved in a serious DUI crash that injured multiple firefighters was found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) more than three times the legal limit, according to a newly released police warrant. The incident took place on the night of January 2, when Selina Gomez, 24, crashed her 2009 Nissan Maxima into a firetruck outside the South Green Station (Engine Co. 6) on Main Street.
The Crash Incident
According to police, the accident happened around 9:50 p.m. as firefighters were backing a firetruck into the station. Gomez, who was traveling southbound, attempted to swerve around the vehicle despite its emergency lights being activated, ultimately crashing into the truck with enough force to “violently rock” the heavy vehicle, according to surveillance footage referenced in the arrest affidavit.
Four firefighters and Gomez were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. While being evaluated, police noticed clear signs of intoxication. Officer Chelsea Negron documented glossy eyes, the strong odor of alcohol, and an open bottle of tequila on the floor of Gomez’s vehicle.
Blood Alcohol and Field Sobriety Test
Despite leg injuries from the crash, police administered a modified field sobriety test, which Gomez failed. A blood test at the hospital later revealed her BAC to be 0.265, more than three times the legal limit of 0.08.
Driving Record and Legal Charges
Further investigation into Gomez’s background revealed a pattern of previous DUI offenses. Her driver’s license had been suspended since July 9, 2023, and she had prior convictions for driving under the influence and operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock device. Additionally, the license plate on her car belonged to another vehicle, and the Maxima was found to be unregistered and uninsured.
As a result, Gomez faces multiple charges, including:
- Driving under the influence
- Operating under suspension
- Interfering with an officer/resisting arrest
- Failure to renew vehicle registration
- Illegal operation without minimum insurance
- Improper use of a marker plate
- Traveling unreasonably fast
A Pattern of Risky Behavior
Police emphasized that Gomez’s history and the severity of the crash illustrate a “pattern of behavior in which she willfully operates a vehicle while impaired.” Her actions not only put herself at risk but endangered the lives of first responders and the broader Hartford community.
The crash has sparked renewed concerns over repeat DUI offenders, vehicle safety compliance, and protecting emergency personnel working on active roadways.
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