RICHMOND — A Harpswell man is facing charges after reportedly smashing into a curb while trying to start his car early Friday morning.

Wade Welner, 26, was charged with operating under the influence and taken to Two Bridges Regional Jail in Wiscassett, said Richmond Police Chief Scott MacMaster.

Welner was charged around 3:30 a.m., near the intersection of Front and Main streets, after attempting to start a 2007 two-door Chevrolet by rolling it down a hill and clutch starting it, MacMaster said.

The idea is to get the vehicle rolling, push the clutch to put the car in gear, and then popping the clutch to turn over the engine, which causes it to start. The technique only works with a standard transmission and requires the key be in the “on” position.

That’s where Welner’s attempt failed, MacMaster said.

“Welner failed to have the keys in the ignition when doing this, so the steering wheel was locked,” MacMaster said. “The car crashed into the curbing, causing minor damage to the car.”


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