LARGO, Fla. – A driver was arrested for DUI following a single-vehicle crash on the U.S. Highway 19 Frontage Road near 142nd Avenue North in Largo at approximately 1:38 a.m. on March 20, 2025.
According to authorities, 39-year-old Christopher Gualt was driving a 2002 Toyota Corolla hatchback that veered off the roadway and struck a metal fence, a large concrete pillar, and the guy wires of a Duke Energy pole. The crash caused an estimated $45,000 damage, including the Four Lakes Apartment Complex sign.
After the crash, Gualt fled the scene on foot. A K-9 unit from the Largo Police Department was deployed, and officers located him hiding in nearby bushes. Witnesses reported seeing Gualt exit the driver’s side and run away. Law enforcement also found his wallet, containing his Florida driver’s license, near the driver’s side door of the crashed vehicle, which was registered in his name. He also lived in the nearby Four Lakes of Clearwater Apartment complex.
Video of the apprehension courtesy of the Largo Police Department
Upon being located, Gualt showed multiple signs of impairment, including bloodshot and watery eyes, slurred and mumbled speech, and an unsteady balance. Officers noted a strong odor of alcohol from his breath. He refused a breath alcohol test and exhibited further impairment during standard field sobriety exercises.
Records show Gualt has a prior DUI conviction from September 25, 2013. He was taken into custody on charges of leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage, careless driving, and DUI, and later released on $2,500 bond.