Man arrested with loaded AR-15 and BAC nearly 8 times legal limit outside Summit County business

Photo: Summit County Sheriff

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — A man was taken into custody after deputies found him parked at a local business with multiple firearms in his vehicle and a blood-alcohol level of .394—nearly eight times the legal limit.

According to the probable cause report, a deputy first noticed the man hiding from view upon seeing the patrol car. When the deputy approached and asked if he was okay, signs of impairment were immediately apparent.

The deputy discovered that the man was carrying a handgun on his person. A further search of the vehicle revealed a total of four firearms, including another handgun and an AR-15. All of the firearms had loaded magazines, though none had a round in the chamber.

The driver told deputies he had planned to sleep in the parking lot and did not intend to drive while impaired. However, it is illegal to be under the influence while in possession of firearms.

The man is charged with four counts of carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence, as well as public intoxication. Penalties for these charges include up to a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail.

The man was transported to a hospital for medical clearance. At this time the driver has not been convicted of any crime related to the incident.