Michael Rainey

An Athens man who collided with a utility pole on Clinton Street Wednesday was arrested on multiple charges, an official said.

Athens Police Capt. Trevor Harris said 18-year-old Michael Anthony Rainey of 803 Woodridge Drive, Athens, was being pursued by a state trooper northbound on Clinton Street. Harris said Rainey swerved across the center line and struck a utility pole on the opposite side of the road.

The utility pole was broken by Rainey’s 1985 Oldsmobile, which caused power outages throughout the city.

The vehicle came to rest in front of Athens Middle School. At that time, Harris said Rainey and a passenger fled on foot through the Willowbrook Apartments complex. Both men were apprehended a short time later.

Rainey was arrested on charges of second-degree possession of marijuana, attempt to elude by motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without insurance and running a red light. He was later released on $4,500 bond.

The name of the second man has not been released. It is not known if he was charged with a crime.

Harris said Athens Middle and Julian Newman Elementary schools were “kept informed” during the incident.

Athens Utilities worked throughout the afternoon to install a new pole and install power. Athens police assisted troopers with evidence collection and accident investigation.