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A driver in Northern California found himself under arrest on DUI charges after authorities discovered him unconscious behind the wheel of his self-driving vehicle, which was still navigating through bustling city streets.
The unsettling incident took place shortly after 11 a.m. on a Wednesday in Vacaville, a city located about 35 miles southwest of Sacramento. The Vacaville Police Department reported that a vigilant resident called 911 to alert them about a driver who seemed to be dozing off.
Compounding the issue, police noted that the car had not come to a stop.
According to authorities, the vehicle continued to move through traffic, posing a significant threat to other motorists. The caller remained on the line, offering continuous updates that enabled officers to locate the car and safely halt it near the intersection of Elmira Road and Shasta Drive.
Vacaville Police reported that a driver was found unconscious while his car proceeded through the streets. (Vacaville Police Department)
Photos shared by the Vacaville Police Department show the driver leaned back in the seat, apparently asleep, as the vehicle sat in traffic.
But it’s what officers found inside the car that quickly raised red flags.
Items found inside the vehicle — including an open box of wine, a bottle and takeout food — after Vacaville police stopped a suspected drunken driver. (Vacaville Police Department)
Images released by the department show an open box of wine, a partially consumed bottle and takeout food scattered across the passenger seat, along with other loose items inside the vehicle.
Investigators say they determined the driver was under the influence of both alcohol and marijuana. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI.
Police also drew strong reactions on social media after sharing images from the incident.
Vacaville Police Department officers responded to a dangerous alleged DUI incident involving a driver found unconscious behind the wheel. (Vacaville Police Department)
“That time when his vehicle had more situational awareness than he did,” one commenter wrote.
Others praised both the caller and responding officers for preventing a potentially dangerous crash.
“Glad no one was hurt. Great job of getting this guy off the road,” another user added.
The Vacaville Police Department noted that while newer vehicles may include assistive driving features, those systems are no substitute for a sober, alert driver.
Police also credited the quick-thinking caller for helping prevent what could have turned into a serious crash.
“Your calls help make our streets safer,” the department said.
Stepheny Price covers crime, including missing persons, homicides and migrant crime. Send story tips to stepheny.price@fox.com.