Amsterdam man accused of driving drunk with kids crashes into Broome Animal Sanctuary

BROOME, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- An Amsterdam man was arrested on Friday after allegedly driving drunk and crashing into the Broome Animal Sanctuary. According to the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, 53-year-old Erray Vanbuckly, had two children in the car at the time of the crash. Deputies said around 10:19 p.m. they were called to the Animal Sanctuary on Route 145 for reports of a car accident. Upon arrival, they found Vanbuckly and two kids in the car. As the sheriff's office continued to investigate, Vanbuckly was reportedly showing signs of impairment and was later arrested. He was charged with: Deputies said once at the station for processing, he refused to submit to a chemical blood test. According to the sheriff's office, Vanbuckly was arraigned in Schoharie County Centralized Arraignment and was released pending a future court date. According to the sanctuary, the car crashed into an apple tree and took out about 100 feet of fencing on the property, the original iron gate, a new gate, and fencing at the welcome center. "We are incredibly grateful, and relieved, that no animals or humans were injured," the owners shared on Facebook. After Friday's crash, temporary fences were installed and on Saturday, the fence was completely replaced. The owners have started a Facebook fundraiser to help cover emergency bills and the cost of repairs; anyone looking to donate can do so on the sanctuary's page. Sanctuary Executive Director Tony Frier said this incident was the fifth crash to happen at the space in eight years. Frier said about two years ago, someone crashed into their produce stand. "We have employees, volunteers, customers, and sanctuary visitors who must walk across this stretch of Route 145, and it feels like the DOT is waiting for someone to get seriously hurt before taking action," he said.