A child was flown to a hospital following a multi-vehicle collision in Center County on November 8,2024. The incident occurred as a result of a driver allegedly operating a vehicle while impaired by both alcohol and controlled substances.
The Centre County Prison is currently holding Artur Umarov, the driver believed responsible for the crash, after bail was denied. He faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence, recklessly endangering another person, driving under the influence, careless driving resulting in serious bodily injury, and reckless driving. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 19, 2024.
According to a press release, multiple vehicles sustained damage in the main collision. Online court dockets detail the charges against Umarov, stemming from the incident that necessitated the child’s transport to a medical facility for treatment. The extent of the child’s injuries has not been released.
This incident underscores the ongoing dangers of impaired driving in Centre County and statewide. Pennsylvania consistently sees a significant number of crashes involving impaired drivers, with DUI-related incidents often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The upcoming preliminary hearing will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with a trial against Umarov.