Drunk driver tried to run over 4 men, charges state

RIVERTON — A Riverton man was charged Tuesday with aggravated assault after he allegedly tried to run over four men in his vehicle while driving under the influence of alcohol.

David Bruce Kubeja, 58, drove into the parking lot of a convenience station at 12600 S. 1300 West, "at a high rate of speed," and slammed on his brakes before hitting four men standing in front of the store, charges filed in 3rd District Court state.

The four men left the convenience store for the Riverton Park skate park. A short time later, Kubeja arrived at the corner of the skate park, stopped his vehicle and then stepped on the gas, the charges state. Police say he turned his steering wheel to aim at the men when he drove near them. The men had to jump out of the way to avoid getting hit.

When a Unifed police officer arrived, Kubeja drove his vehicle over to the officer and exited his vehicle. According to the charges, Kubeja had a difficult time standing and maintaining his balance.

A breathalyzer test was administered and Kubeja had a blood-alcohol content of 0.206, according to the charges. A person with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08 is considered legally impaired in Utah. Officers also found a Smith and Wesson .357 firearm loaded with six rounds on the passenger seat, the charges state.

Kubeja was charged with three counts of aggravated assault, a third-degree felony, driving under the influence of alcohol and carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence of alcohol, class B misdemeanors.

— Hunter Schwarz