Berkeley man crashed into utility pole in Manitou Park, then fled the scene

A Berkeley Township man who was in a heap of trouble Monday morning trying literally running away from the problem.

Police in Berkeley Township responded to a motor vehicle crash between 1st Avenue and Seventh Street in Manitou Park where officers found a vehicle that had crashed into a utility police and a parked car.

The driver was nowhere to be found at the time but many were without power in parts of Berkeley and neighboring South Toms River.

Police were able to identify the driver as Christopher Mariella, 36, who left the scene on foot and went to his residence a block away on 2nd Avenue.

He was placed under arrest and charged with refusal to submit to a breath sample and was then released on a summons.

Berkeley Police said that more charges are likely as the investigation into the crash continues.

The vehicle was impounded in accordance with John’s law.

Patrolman Jacob Camaraza is the investigating officer.