Conn. driver charged in truck rampage that hurt 25

STAMFORD, Conn. – Police charged the driver of a box truck that crashed into numerous vehicles, including a school bus, with offenses including operating under the influence of a narcotic.

Police said Thursday that 30-year-old Christopher Simonelli of Stamford also was charged with 25 counts of risk of injury to a minor, four counts of first-degree assault and four counts of evading responsibility.

Twenty-two people were injured in the Nov. 16 crash in Stamford, including Simonelli, who was treated for life-threatening injuries.

Police said Simonelli smashed into signs, parking meters and 14 vehicles, including a school bus with 27 students inside.

Simonelli, who was being held on $150,000 bond, pleaded not guilty to the charges Thursday in Stamford Superior Court, said his attorney, Lindy Urso.

"My understanding is Mr. Simonelli has no recollection of the events that led to his arrest," Urso said. "He's very thankful that none of the people were seriously, permanently injured."

Urso said the assault charges "may be a little overboard." He said based on his initial inquiry it does not appear Simonelli intended to do it.