Thursday, July 28, 2011

A Wichita man who caused a serious crash on Kellogg in Wichita that was caught on video did not show up for his trial date. Thirty-two-year-old Matthew Cantrell was driving a white Suzuki SUV eastbound on Kellogg back in December when he lost control and flipped the vehicle several times. The entire crash was caught on a sheriff's deputy's internal video camera.

A criminal misdemeanor case was presented to city prosecutors, who charged Cantrell with a second offense DUI and reckless driving, but Cantrell never showed up for his June 24 trial. He was not arrested that night because of his injuries.

"When we have DUI's that stem from injury accidents, that is pretty common," said Wichita Police Lieutenant Joe Schroeder. "We will allow them medical care. If they're not going to be in a condition to be released from a hospital, then we will simply file charges at a later time and issue a summons."

Police have now issued a warrant for Cantrell's arrest. As soon as he is caught, he'll be jailed and forced to appear in front of a judge for these charges. But Schroeder says this case is no different than many others.

"You also have to remember that what people saw on that sheriff's dash cam is what happens all the time," Schroeder explained. "As far as people being charged with second convictions, we see a lot of repeat offenders come through the system."

"He is accused," Schroeder said. "It doesn't mean he's necessarily guilty, but he will have to appear before the judge to plead his case."

If you know Matthew Cantrell or where he might be, you can always call Crimestoppers anonymously at (316) 267-2111.