An Oklahoma man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of hit-and-run and DUI in connection with a collision with another vehicle in La Quinta, a sheriff's sergeant said.
A deputy responded to the reported hit-and-run at 4:52 p.m. Oct. 3 at Highway 111 and Jefferson Street, La Quinta police Sgt. Jon J. Gaw said in a statement.
A description was broadcast by dispatchers and a Palm Desert deputy in the area found the suspect vehicle at Jensen's Market, at Simon Drive and the 111 in La Quinta, Gaw said.
The driver of the hit-and-run vehicle was identified as Richard Alan Popplewell, 59, of Tulsa, Gaw said.
"The investigation revealed that Popplewell was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage," Gaw said. "Popplewell was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and hit and run."
Popplewell was examined to confirm he was not injured and then booked at Indio Jail, Gaw said.
"The victim of the hit and run sustained no injuries and the vehicle sustained only minor damage," Gaw said.
Popplewell was cited on suspicion of three misdemeanors and released early Friday Oct. 4 on $2,500 bail, according to inmate records. He has a December court date in Indio.
Anyone with more info was urged to call La Quinta police at (760) 863-8990 or Crime Stoppers at (760) 341-7867.
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