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Driver crashes into Mesa gas pumps, leaves puppies in burning truck, police say

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MESA, AZ — Two puppies are being treated for minor burns after being rescued from a truck that crashed into a Mesa gas station and caught fire.

Mesa Police Department officials say the crash occurred at a QuikTrip station near McKellips Road and Country Club Drive around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Police say Eduardo Marquez was driving in a pickup truck and crashed into the gas pumps at the station. He then allegedly fled the scene on foot while the truck caught fire. Inside the truck were two Sharpei puppies, who were fortunately rescued by fire crews.

After a search of the area, Marquez was located and detained about a mile away. A passenger was also in the vehicle but has not been located, police say.

The puppies are being treated at a Mesa veterinary center for burns on their paws and some melted plastic in their fur, but a vet told officials that the puppies "will be fine."

Marquez is being charged with DUI, leaving the scene of a collision, criminal damage and two counts of animal cruelty. His exact age has not been released.