MANHATTAN, Kan. (KAKE) - Manhattan Mayor Winifried Butler has reportedly resigned after being arrested Wednesday on suspicion of driving under the influence after crashing his vehicle into a local liquor store. 

According to police records, the 72-year-old mayor was cited for driving under the influence just after 9:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Candlewood Liquor Store. The total estimated loss is over $1,000.

Butler confirmed to Manhattan radio station KMAN that his brakes failed. Butler also admitted to having had four beers earlier in the evening. It’s unclear if the city commission will try to fill the vacancy or possibly call a special election. 

The liquor store posted on social media about the incident, saying: 

Hey Manhappiness, there's a rumor going round that a 'drive through' liquor is in the area??
All kidding aside, just letting everyone know that we are extremely thankful that all involved were not injured and that our regular hours of operation will stay the same.
Special thanks to all who came and helped get us cleaned up last night, ya'll are the best!
YES, WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

 

No injuries were reported in the crash.

Butler was first elected to the Manhattan City Commission in April 2011. He served as Mayor in 2014-2015 and 2021 and was re-elected to the Commission in 2021 for a four-year term.