Moniteau Co. prosecutor arrested after downtown Columbia crash
Four people were injured Saturday night after a truck crashed into Addison’s Grill on Cherry Street in downtown Columbia.
36-year-old Shayne Healea of California, Missouri backed his truck, which had the tailgate down, into a portion of the building, according to police.
Healea is the Moniteau County prosecutor.
After hitting the building, police said Healea left the scene and parked his truck in front of the Tiger Hotel and was arrested in an alley near the crash.
He was arrested for four counts of Second Degree Assault and for leaving the scene of an accident.
Healea was taken to the Boone County Jail and was held on a $22,500 bond. He posted bond early Sunday morning.
The injuries were caused by flying debris after the truck went through a wall of the restaurant.
The truck left the scene after the incident.
Healea sent ABC 17 News a statement on the incident Sunday evening.
“On the evening of October 25, 2014, I was in downtown Columbia to pick up some friends and take them home. Apparently, while turning around in a small parking lot, my lowered tailgate contacted a glass block window without my knowledge. As I was driving less than a block away from this parking lot, an individual advised me of the accident and I immediately returned. I identified myself to police as the driver. Police took me into custody and their investigation continues. Because there is a criminal investigation underway, I can make no further comment on this matter until it is concluded. I am deeply concerned for those who were injured by the damaged glass block window, and my thoughts and prayers are with them all.”
Firefighters built temporary supports as a precaution to sustain the building.
(Editor’s note, 10/26, 9:30 p.m.: The story now contains a statement sent by Shayne Healea.)
(Editor’s note, 10/26, 11:52 p.m.: The headline of the story has been changed to “arrested” from “faces charges.” As of Sunday night, the Boone County Court has not formally charged Healea for second-degree assault or leaving the scene.)
