Driver charged in crash that set tree on fire in Dauphin County

LOWER PAXTON TWP., Dauphin County, Pa. –After a crash that resulted in two fires, one a vehicle fire and the second a small tree that was burning, police filed multiple charges against the driver of the SUV that crashed and created the mess.  It happened in the 200 block of North Lockwillow Avenue on August 13th. Police say when they arrived at the scene, they found a black SUV on fire and blocking the roadway.  They soon discovered a second fire in the front yard of a residence. Police believe the black SUV left the roadway and became stuck in the front yard of the residence. Witnesses told police that the driver, Zachary Hoffman, repeatedly spun the vehicle’s tires in an attempt to free himself from the yard. As a result, a small tree caught fire. The black SUV eventually gained traction and backed into the roadway. Once on the roadway, the SUV struck a parked vehicle and proceeded down an embankment before catching fire and blocking the roadway. Once the fire was extinguished, officers say they discovered drug paraphernalia inside the SUV in plain view. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded additional drug paraphernalia, marijuana and cash. Hoffman was subsequently arrested for PWI, DUI, Underage Drinking and Accidents Involving Damage To Property. He was transported to the Judicial Center for processing and arraignment.