A Torrington man crashed into a utility pole, snapped it at the base and then walked into nearby woods before a Connecticut State Police K-9 tracked him down, authorities said.

Troopers responded Sunday afternoon to Whitbeck Road in New Hartford, where police said a blue Hyundai Elantra struck a utility pole. A witness told dispatchers the driver left the scene and headed into a wooded area.

State police said several empty containers consistent with alcoholic beverages were found inside the vehicle. A K-9 team later located the driver, identified as 53-year-old David Allan Peck of Torrington, in the woods and escorted him back to the crash scene.

Investigators said Peck told troopers he had been using his cellphone before the crash and left because he was nervous and unsure what to do. Troopers reported signs of possible impairment and said Peck declined field sobriety tests.

Peck was charged with driving under the influence, failure to maintain lane, evading responsibility and using a cellular device while driving. He was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court Oct. 19.