Published: June 08, 2009 11:47 pm      

Police: Central City driver hurt in second DUI-related crash in less than 6 mos.

WINDBER — A Central City man was injured in his second alcohol-related crash in less than six months, authorities said.

State police in Somerset said George Michael Kalanish, 29, of Tower Road, was traveling northbound on Route 160 last week when his 1998 Buick Park Avenue left the road, struck an embankment and traveled about 43 feet before hitting a tree.

Kalanish was taken to Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, where he was treated and released.

Police said charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and related counts are expected to be filed before District Judge Joseph Cannoni of Windber.

On Dec. 26, Kalanish was charged with DUI, aggravated assault stemming from a drunken-driving crash and assault on a police officer.

Shade Township police said Kalanish was driving a vehicle on Shaffer Mountain Road when he lost control and ran off the road, coming to a rest 80 feet into the woods.

Police said they found Kalanish standing near the vehicle, slurring his words, falling down and swinging his arms when they approached.

An officer was injured in the assault.

In December’s incident, Kalanish also was charged with resisting arrest and traffic offenses and will answer those charges in Somerset County court. No trial date has been set.