VILLAS — A youth hockey game at Mulligan Field nearly turned tragic Dec. 18 when an allegedly intoxicated driver entered the field in a Jeep, scattered players and parents, and finally crashed into a tree and fence.

According to a Lower Township Police Department release, a call was received at 7:30 p.m. that reported a possible intoxicated driver inside the recreational park.

The Clem Mulligan Complex is located on Mowery Avenue between Caroline and Bates avenue. The complex has two lighted basketball courts, two Little League baseball fields, a street hockey rink, jogging path, concession building, benches, picnic tables and playground equipment.

By the time police arrived, they found Donald R. Hand, 58, of Georgia Avenue, Villas, who had driven his 1992 Jeep into a tree, was wedged between the tree and fence in the field.

Hand was held at bay by a group of citizens who had been watching the street hockey game in the field.

Police investigators found that Hand had entered the park through a gate on the north side, and was driving erratically while inside the park. It drove on walk paths, and caused children ad adults to flee from the part of the oncomoing vehicle.

In addition to the fence and tree, which stopped the vehicle, the vehicle also hit and damaged a well point, trash receptacles, concrete barrier and various playing fields in the recreational area.

Witness told police that people were trying to stop the Jeep while others were moving children out of harm’s way and out of the park. Witnesses also said that Hand was “actually attempting to light a cigarette while he was driving through the crowd,” according to the release.

Hand was charged with driving while under the influence, reckless driving, aggravated assault and other motor vehicle and local ordinance violations.

Hand was transported to Cape Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries sustained in the incident. He was then remanded to county jail in default of $2,500 bail.