Jefferson City police suspect alcohol is factor in single-car crash that caused injuries

Jefferson City police suspect alcohol was a factor in a Thursday night crash in the 800 block of Belair Dr.

Police said a Chevrolet Silverado was driving southbound when it lost control and began sliding sideways. The car ran off the left side of the roadway and then struck a tree on the passenger side of the vehicle causing extensive damage.

Officers said the driver and the passenger had to be extricated by firefighters and were taken to a local hospital.

Police said neither occupants had a seatbelt on and alcohol was suspected to be a factor.

The driver, Gary Gieck Jr. had moderate injuries.

The passenger, Jonathan Cooper had serious injuries and was later transported to a Columbia hospital for the treatment of his injuries.