Drunk driving puts other drivers at serious risk of injury or even death.
On June 29, there was an accident that ended in two fatalities and three people injured. The accident took place on Highway 100 around 7:00 p.m. at Route M. The man who caused the accident then fled from the hospital where he was receiving treatment in order to avoid being taken into police custody, as he was suspected of drunk driving.
According to authorities, Joshua McFerrin, 36, was westbound in a Dodge Stratus on Highway 100, but failed to make a stop at a traffic signal. Instead, he turned directly into the path of a Ford Fusion, and there was a resulting crash.
There were two passengers in the backseat of the Dodge Stratus, Tarlton M. Stephens, 46, and Mitchell R. Mantels, 56, and both were killed in the crash. Both men were from Villa Ridge, Missouri. Shanna M. Wilken, 30, was seated in the front passenger seat, and needed to be hospitalized for the serious injuries she sustained.
There were two passengers in the Ford Fusion who sustained minor injuries. They were treated at the hospital and then were released.
Police suspected that McFerrin was drinking and driving. He was treated at Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment. However, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, McFerrin then fled from the emergency room to avoid being taken into custody. A manhunt was undertaken and McFerrin eluded police for days. However, McFerrin was finally apprehended by police in the first week of July in Phelps County and he has now made his first appearance in court where he was arraigned.
In Franklin County court, McFerrin has plead not guilty to one count of involuntary manslaughter. There are possibly further charges that could be issued against him.
McFerrin’s next court appearance will be in October. Until then he is being held in police custody and his bail is set at $500,000.
Drunk driving and driving under the influence puts other drivers at serious risk of injury or death. Drivers whose negligent actions contribute to or cause an accident that results in injuries to another individual must be held accountable. In addition to criminal charges that can be filed against the negligent driver, like in the case of Joshua McFerrin, victims can also file a personal injury lawsuit or a wrongful death lawsuit against negligent drivers.
St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident involving a careless or negligent driver, or if a family member has died, contact a St. Louis car accident lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to damages for property damage, lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, or funeral and burial costs. An experienced Missouri auto accident attorney will evaluate your case, work to protect your rights, and get you the compensation you need to get the care that you need and move forward with your life.
To speak with a St. Louis car accident lawyer contact The Hoffmann Law Firm by calling (314) 361-4242 or filling out our online contact form.