Soccer Complex Vandalized by Alleged Drunk Driver

Authorities have arrested one man on charges of drunkenly using a car to vandalize a soccer facility in West Knoxville on Tuesday night.

Ismael C. Juan, 26, faces charges of vandalism, driving under the influence, driving without a license and driving without insurance, according to the Knox County Sheriff's Office.

"Knox County Parks and Recreation facilities are maintained at public expense, and it's a shame when grown men do stupid things that cost taxpayers money," said Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett.

Witnesses told authorities that around 8 p.m., Juan attempted to drive a red 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse onto one of the fields at U.S. Cellular Sports Soccer Complex.

Juan was seen spinning out for several minutes in the parking lot before losing control and crashing the car into one of the metal gates, according to a news release from the county's Parks and Recreation Department.

Juan and a passenger left the scene but were pulled over by a KCSO deputy moments later at Lovell View Drive and Yarnell Road. The deputy noticed several open beer cans, according to the arrest report. Juan was charged and taken to the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.

Adan Paris, 25, was a passenger in the car. His right arm was injured from the crash into the gate, so he was taken to Park West Medical Center.

The damage done to the facility was at least $1,500, according to the release.

This is the second act of vandalism at the complex in as many months. In March, someone damaged the gates and drove onto several soccer fields, ruining the turf. The county purchased new $3,400 gates following that crime. Authorities are still investigating that case, and it's not known if the two cases are related.

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