MH man arrested, Cotter residents injured in 2-vehicle accident

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A two-vehicle accident Sunday evening in Baxter County resulted in possible injuries to a pair of Cotter residents and the arrest of a Mountain Home man. According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, 30-year-old Jonathan Trease is in the Baxter County Detention Center, and 54-year-old Heather Weyh-Crunkleton and her juvenile passenger were transported to Baxter Regional Medical Center from the scene on Wildcat Shoals Road.

Baxter County 911 Dispatch advised a deputy of the collision with road blockage. The deputy arrived to find the first vehicle in the middle of the road and the second vehicle in the yard of a nearby residence. Both vehicles were disabled.

A witness stated he was behind the second vehicle when he observed the first vehicle negotiating a curve at a high rate of speed. The witness said it appeared the driver of the first vehicle overcorrected, lost control and went sideways. He added the second vehicle went right in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid a collision.

The deputy said he spoke with the driver of the first vehicle, identified as Trease, and could smell intoxicants. The deputy also stated Trease had bloodshot watery eyes and slurred speech. Trease denied consuming alcohol.

The deputy stated his investigation confirmed the witness’ account. Trease and his four passengers declined medical attention. Three of his passengers were juveniles.

Weyh-Crunkleton was identified as the driver of the second vehicle, and she and her passenger were transported by Baxter Regional paramedics to the hospital. The deputy later met Wehy-Crunkleton at BRMC where she corroborated the witness’ statement.

Trease was taken into custody and transported to the detention center. He was administered a blood alcohol content test in which he registered .21.

Trease was charged with driving while intoxicated, careless and prohibited driving, three counts of endangering the welfare of a minor and no driver’s license. His bond is set at $2,525.

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