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Pelham Schools Closed After Allegedly Drunk Mom Crashes Car

PELHAM, N.H. (CBS) -- Schools in Pelham, New Hampshire were closed Wednesday due to a car crash involving an allegedly drunk mother, police said.

Authorities said 32-year-old Tanisha Rivera, of Lowell, had her 7 and 12-year-old children in the car when she crashed into a pole at Marsh Road just before midnight. The crash brought down live wires on the roadway, which is the only way to access the town's schools.

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The crash brought down wires on Marsh Road (Photo credit Pelham police)

Power went out for most residents, and officials decided to cancel school because of the wire danger and extensive repairs that were needed.

After the crash, police say Rivera flagged down a passerby and asked for a ride to a local bar. She was said to be slurring her words and unsteady on her feet.

The children were hospitalized, but expected to be OK. The 12-year-old may have suffered a broken ankle, officials said.

Rivera was arraigned in Salem District Court Wednesday on charges of driving on a suspended license, and aggravated DUI for having children in the car. She was held on $5,000 cash bail.

The roadway is not expected to be open until after the evening commute.

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