CSPD arrests suspected drunk driver who allegedly assaulted officers

Colorado Springs police on Sunday arrested a suspected drunk driver who allegedly assaulted several officers and emergency medical personnel following a single-car crash, according to law enforcement officials.

Joseph Lopez faces multiple misdemeanor and felony charges in connection with the incident, police said.

At about 4:30 p.m. Sunday, officers responded to a single-vehicle crash on Powers Boulevard near Hancock Expressway. Witnesses reported that the driver was carrying an unspecified weapon as he walked away from his vehicle.

When officers and other emergency personnel made contact with the man, he began fighting them, police said. After his arrest and transport to an area hospital, Lopez allegedly continued to behave aggressively, attempting to bite hospital staff members.

A search of Lopez's vehicle turned up an illegal firearm, police said. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the crash.