Accused drunk driver crashes into Caledonia school overnight

CALEDONIA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- An alleged drunk driver crashed into Olympia Brown School in Caledonia Tuesday morning, July 29, according to Caledonia police.

It happened around 2:19 a.m., when officers were dispatched to the area of 5 1/2 Mile Road and Novak Road for what was described as "a loud boom."

Police say the 23-year-old man from Racine crashed through an exterior wall of the school and entered a classroom, continuing through to an adjacent classroom. 

The crash caused significant damage to the school, leaving a large hole in the brick wall. School supplies and toys were seen littered along the floor next to debris in what parents say is a 4K classroom. No injuries were reported. 

"When I saw the hole in the wall and into the next classroom, he had to be drunk or just going 70-80 miles per hour. I’m surprised he made it that far, really," shared neighbor Bob Johnson, who heard the commotion in the early morning.

Police say they believe alcohol and speed were factors. That's something that Johnson considers a problem in the neighborhood.

"I fear for the kids. I walk around the neighborhood, and some people go the speed limit... it’s 25 down here, but the average is 30-40 miles per hour."

Construction continues on one of the newer buildings in the district, expanding the number of grades and the number of students Johnson worries for.

"It is what it is, there's not much you can do. Just hope no one gets killed, maimed, or hurt," he shared.

The driver was arrested for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and various other violations. 

The Racine Unified School District is still assessing damage to see if it’ll impact renovations, as school is set to start at the beginning of September.