NEWS

Police: Drunk driver punched victim after hit-and-run crash

Cassa Niedringhaus
cniedringhaus@coloradoan.com

A woman who police say was driving drunk allegedly crashed into another car and then punched its driver in the face Tuesday in Fort Collins.

Toni Harding, 25, reportedly ran red lights, sped and drove erratically, which spurred multiple people to report her to police, according to her arrest affidavit. She reportedly crashed into another car and attempted to flee the scene, but the driver of the other vehicle was able to stop her at the intersection of Drake and Timberline roads.

Toni Harding

At that point, Harding allegedly punched the victim — who is 72 years old — in the face, causing minor injuries.

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When Fort Collins police responded to the scene, Harding reportedly refused field sobriety tests but had the odor of alcohol on her breath and had alcohol bottles in her car.

After police handcuffed Harding, she allegedly kicked an officer in the thigh and the hand.

She was arrested on suspicion of third-degree assault on an at-risk adult and second-degree assault on an officer, both felonies, and misdemeanor driving under the influence and careless driving.

Harding posted a $500 bond and has since been released from jail. She's due in court for a first appearance March 9.

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