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Witness Hogties Drunk Driver

Drivers saw suspect dodging head-on collisions

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 18, 2012 11:34 PM CST

(Newser) – A man spotted driving erratically on a stretch of New Mexico highway notorious for drunk-driving deaths was hogtied by a witness until police arrived. The man, seen barely avoiding head-on collisions as he drove southbound in northbound lanes, was confronted by fellow motorists when he pulled over at a convenience store. He became belligerent and was tackled and tied up as he tried to run away, the Farmington Daily Times reports.

Cops found an open container of alcohol in the 22-year-old's car and charged him with drunk driving. He had been driving on a stretch of highway where six people died in a six-week period, including three in two unrelated crashes on New Year's Day. Police say that while they don't recommend tying up suspected drunk drivers, the man who tied up the suspect will not be facing charges. "I think they were trying to save lives and if you look at that intent, I'll stand behind them everyday," the local sheriff says.

Justin Ryan Canuto, 22, was charged with drunk driving. (AP Photo/San Juan County Adult Detention Center)

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Witness Hogties Drunk Driver

Drivers saw suspect dodging head-on collisions

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