A search involving a sheriff’s K-9 and drone unit was launched early Sunday after deputies found a crashed vehicle near Naples with no driver at the scene in freezing temperatures.
Ontario County Sheriff’s deputies responded around 6:28 a.m. Sunday to State Route 21 near the Steuben County line for a report of a vehicle off the roadway and down an embankment.
Deputies said their investigation determined the driver had left the scene on foot, traveling through a snow-covered field toward a wooded area. Authorities believe the crash happened several hours earlier, and frigid temperatures raised concerns for the driver’s safety.
A search effort involving the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit, Ontario County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit, and Naples Fire and Rescue was launched. After about 30 minutes, K-9 “Tripp” tracked and located the driver.
The operator was identified as 49-year-old Eric Bauman of Naples. Deputies said he was found alive but suffering from severe cold-related injuries. It was later determined that Bauman had been operating his vehicle while intoxicated.
Canandaigua Ambulance transported Bauman to F.F. Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua. He was later transferred to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, where he was admitted to the burn unit.
Bauman has been charged with driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. He is scheduled to appear in Naples Town Court at a later date.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
