(La Porte County, IN) - A semi-truck driver drank nearly a 12 pack of beer just prior to overturning his rig near Michigan City. That’s what 51 year old Joseph Shirley allegedly told police.  He’s accused of having a blood alcohol level nearly two times the legal limit. 

About two weeks ago, police say the overturned semi and trailer on Interstate 94 blocked all of the eastbound lanes.  Multiple vehicles hit the rig, including a driver who suffered a broken leg.  Police say the truck driver told investigators he drank about ten beers during a 10 hour period of time on the road before the crash.  The Alabama man could face an up to six year sentence on a charge of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury.