By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

An 18-year-old Hays man is facing multiple charges after passing out at the wheel of a car while engaging in “huffing.”

According to Hays Police Department Chief of Police Don Scheibler, officers responded to the 3300 block of Vine Street shortly after 11:30 p.m. Sunday when a blue Oldsmobile “left the roadway and struck a pole.”

“Upon investigation, it was discovered the driver was engaging in ‘huffing’ by inhaling a can of aerosol duster,” Scheibler said.

The driver reportedly suffered a broken jaw. A passenger in the vehicle was not injured.

“Huffing” is a slang term used when people inhale chemicals to get high.

“We know it goes on,” said Scheibler, “It is a very dangerous practice.”

“We are very lucky the driver did not kill himself or caused a very serious accident that could have resulted in the death of several people,” Scheibler added.

Scheibler said the man, whose name is not being released, is facing allegations of driving under the influence, driving left of center, unlawful abuse of a toxic substance and possibly aggravated endangerment of a child because the passenger in the car was under the age of 18.