The driver of a tractor trailer truck that hit a building in Warren last week has been charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

According to police, Clinton, Conn. resident Gregory Francis Novak was driving a tractor trailer truck through the center of Warren at about 2:20 p.m. on Monday, June 24, when he failed to navigate an intersection and his truck struck the corner of a building. The facade of the building containing Quench Juicery was damaged — the sign was clipped and siding was ripped off the structure. 

Police said Mr. Novak continued to drive, heading north on Route 114 toward Barrington. Warren police began to chase the truck and then radioed ahead to Barrington PD. Officers in Barrington ordered Mr. Novak to pull over his vehicle, and he eventually obliged near the intersection of Route 114 and Joyce Street.

Officers said that during questioning, Mr. Novak could not keep his balance and was struggling to remain standing. 

Mr. Novak allegedly told police he had not consumed any alcohol that day, but did admit to taking three Suboxone pills. Police searched the vehicle and allegedly found two bottles containing synthetic urine. 

Police later charged Mr. Novak, who is 52 years old, with DUI/drugs/alcohol-first offense and refusal to submit to a chemical test.