Woman arrested after Caroline residents report wrong-way drunk driver

CAROLINE COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A 38-year-old woman was arrested after many Caroline County residents reported someone driving recklessly in the area on Friday.

On Friday, March 17, a deputy with the Caroline County Sheriff's Office was conducting a traffic stop when a woman approached him. According to authorities, she had parked her car in the middle of the roadway with the driver's side door open.

"The woman offered a ride to the individuals Deputy Cocho had pulled over, despite their statements that they did not need a ride, nor did they know the woman," the sheriff's office said. "Deputy Cocho immediately noticed signs of impairment, including unsteady balance and slurred speech."

That woman, 38-year-old Tina Tyrell of the Ruther Glen area, was then arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. According to authorities, her blood alcohol content was over .15.

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The sheriff's office later learned that Tyrell had been arrested about a month earlier on the same charge, with her blood alcohol content having been over .20 at that time. At the time of this latest incident, she had been out on bond.

This incident ultimately proved to be related to multiple calls and social media posts made by residents in the Lake Land'Or and Ladysmith areas about a reckless driver. According to authorities, these citizen reports had described a white sedan driven by a woman, which they witnessed speeding, driving on the wrong side of the road and putting other drivers in danger.

Several of these residents provided partial license plate information. According to authorities, it's this information that ultimately aided the deputy in his arrest of Tyrell.

"This case highlights the importance of community involvement in keeping our roads safe," said Scott Moser, the Caroline County Sheriff, in a press release. "Thanks to alert citizens who reported suspicious activity, we were able to take a dangerous driver off the streets before tragedy struck. The Caroline County Sheriff's Office remains committed to responding to these concerns and ensuring the safety of everyone in our community. Together, we will continue to strengthen our community and make Caroline County a model for others to follow."

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Tyrell is currently being held without bond at Pamunkey Regional Jail pending her next court appearance.