A breathtaking vision in white turned into a cautionary tale when an Arizona woman was arrested for drunk driving while heading to her wedding.
New body camera video released of ‘DUI bride’ arrest / Via 12news
Amber Young, 32, was behind the wheel of her vehicle in Marana, just north of Tucson, when disaster struck on the morning of March 12, 2018.
Around 10:30 a.m., Young allegedly caused a three-vehicle crash at the busy intersection of Thornydale and Orange Grove roads. One person suffered minor injuries and was transported to a hospital.
Responding officers were greeted by a surreal scene: Young standing amid the wreckage clad in her wedding gown.
The open-back dress and her styled hair made it clear she was dressed for a special occasion. She immediately began telling police she was on her way to get married.
Arizona police arrest bride for DUI on her way to the wedding | 12news.com
Officers performed field sobriety tests, which Young failed. She was promptly handcuffed and placed in the back of a police cruiser, her gown billowing as she was led away.
Subsequent blood tests revealed a high blood alcohol concentration, resulting in extreme DUI charges along with counts for causing the accident.
Young was booked but quickly cited and released, raising questions about whether she made it to her wedding in time.
Police sergeants expressed uncertainty about the ceremony’s status.
The story went viral almost immediately, with photos of the handcuffed bride captivating audiences nationwide and sparking debates online.
WATCH: Body camera shows “Bride’s” DUI arrest / Via witn.com
Controversy arose when Young’s attorneys claimed she wasn’t actually heading to a wedding and accused police of sensationalizing the arrest.
Released body camera footage, however, captured Young repeatedly referencing her impending nuptials.
Ultimately, Young pleaded guilty to the charges.
The incident underscores the critical importance of avoiding impaired driving, no matter how important the destination may be.