Spencer, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) – A Ruthven man was arrested for OWI after a vehicle fire on November 27th.

The Ruthven Fire Department and Clay County Sheriff’s Office were called to the 3100 mile of 330th Ave. for the report of a vehicle fire.  The driver had managed to exit the vehicle before the vehicle became engulfed in flames.

Following the investigation, it was found the driver of the vehicle 61-year-old Michael Sanderson of Ruthven had attempted to turn the vehicle around, the vehicle then became stuck on the shoulder, which led to the vehicle’s muffler starting a grass fire, which turned into a vehicle fire.

It was determined that Sanderson was under the influence of alcohol and was arrested for OWI first offense.  Sanderson was transported to the Clay County Jail where he was booked and is awaiting his initial appearance before the magistrate.

Sanderson denied medical attention for minor burns sustained during the incident and the vehicle is considered a total loss.