A 26-year-old Summersville man is charged with several offenses following a Dec. 14 crash that killed a man in southern Texas County.
Tanner Cole Beasley, who authorities said had a blood-alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit, is charged with DWI resulting in a death, second-degree assault, careless and imprudent driving and making a false report. Charges were filed Thursday in Texas County Associate Court by Prosecutor Jason MacPherson. Bond is set at $500,000.
The patrol said a southbound 2000 Jeep Wrangler driven by Beasley crossed the centerline of Highway 137 and into the path of a northbound 2005 Chrysler Touring operated by Jessica A. Messex, 30, of Willow Springs. The Jeep overturned, and both vehicles came to rest off the highway following the 6:14 a.m. accident about six miles north of Willow Springs.
Messex sustained a serious head injury and severed fingers.
A passenger in the Messex vehicle, Heath L. Wadkins, 30, of Bakersfield, was pronounced dead at the scene by Texas County Coroner Marie Lasater. The patrol said he was not wearing a seat belt. A third person in the vehicle was Joseph D. Phelps, 31, address unknown.
According to a patrol report, Beasley had a preliminary breath test of .18 percent. A blood test also was administered. He denied being a driver.
Services for Mr. Wadkins were Saturday at Gepp. Ark.