Drunk driving blamed in student's death

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) - Drunk driving charges will be filed in connection with an accident that killed a URI student.

Erica Knowles, 23, died when the car she was riding in struck a utility pole on Torrey Road in South Kingstown last week.

On Tuesday, South Kingstown police said they now have an arrest warrant for the driver, 46-year-old Dean Philbrick.

Philbrick is being treated at Rhode Island Hospital for injuries he suffered in the crash.

Police say Philbrick will be charged with driving under the influence, death resulting, and driving to endanger, death resulting.

Before the crash, we're told Philbrick, Knowles and a third person were at two restaurants, Turtle Soup in Narragansett and Kabouki in South Kingstown.

Workers at both restaurants declined comment about the accident, and whether the driver had been drinking at their establishments.

Police say no alcohol was found in the car.

Investigators say Philbrick has agreed to turn himself in when he is released from the hospital.