Portage man arrested for OWI after fleeing scene of Marshall County crash

Friday, March 20, 2026 at 12:30 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A 30-year-old Portage man is facing multiple charges, including operating while intoxicated, after allegedly fleeing the scene of a two-vehicle crash on Wednesday night and later being found passed out in a fast-food parking lot.

According to a news release from Deputy Anthony Bragg of the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, authorities were notified of a collision near the intersection of U.S. 6 and Tamarack Road at approximately 10:39 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18. Dispatch advised that one of the vehicles involved had fled the scene following the crash.

A short time later, the suspect vehicle was located at the McDonald's in Walkerton. Officers arrived to find the driver, later identified as Patrick J. Wright Jr., passed out behind the wheel.

When officers attempted to interact with Wright, he reportedly became belligerent and was non-compliant with law enforcement commands. He was eventually taken into custody at the scene.

Following further investigation, Wright was transported to the Marshall County Jail. He was booked on preliminary charges of Operating While Intoxicated – Endangering, Operating While Intoxicated with a BAC of .15% or more, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash, and Resisting Law Enforcement. Authorities noted that additional charges may be forthcoming.

Wright is currently being held on a $1,505 bond.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is a mere allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.