Man charged with risking a catastrophe on interstate in North Belle Vernon
A truck driver is facing criminal charges for allegedly going 20 mph over the posted speed limit in an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer hauling hazardous materials in North Belle Vernon.
State police said Dale Edward Hollobaugh, 64, of Penfield was driving eastbound on Interstate 70 around 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, going 65 mph in a 45 mph zone. Police alleged Hollobaugh was driving erratically and said they observed him change lanes multiple times without signaling.
When police activated emergency lights for a traffic stop, they said Hollobaugh pulled over and parked on an exit ramp on I-70, partially impeding traffic. According to court paperwork, he got out of the truck and approached police aggressively, with his fist balled up, screaming at a trooper.
The trooper ordered him to the front of the patrol car and placed his hand on Hollobaugh’s chest to direct him toward the front. However, Hollobaugh allegedly swung his hand at the trooper and tried to walk away, prompting the trooper to use a Taser twice on Hollobaugh.
He was taken into custody and the truck was towed.
Hollobaugh faces charges of risking or causing a catastrophe, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and seven vehicle code violations by state police
He was arraigned by Westmoreland County Magisterial District Judge Roger Eckels and is free on $25,000 unsecured bond. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for July 1.