According to the Probable Cause Affidavit, a 43‑year‑old West Plains man was taken into custody Tuesday night after allegedly confronting first responders at a crash scene, fleeing in his vehicle, and later resisting arrest at a nearby residence, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol probable cause statement.
Troopers were investigating a leaving‑the‑scene crash on Missouri Route 160 near County Road 7370 around 7:47 p.m. on January 6 when a red Chevrolet Silverado pulled up to the scene. The driver, identified as Daniel James Martin, reportedly yelled at first responders in a loud and aggressive manner. A trooper noted behavior consistent with intoxication.
When approached, Martin allegedly refused to answer questions, got back into his truck, and accelerated away at high speed, causing rocks and gravel to strike a trooper and emergency vehicles. Troopers followed a dust trail to a residence on County Road 7300, where they located the truck at approximately 8:10 p.m.
According to the report, Martin argued with troopers, retreated into the residence, and refused commands. Troopers forced entry and attempted to take him into custody, but he allegedly continued to resist. A taser was deployed, allowing officers to handcuff him at approximately 8:17 p.m. A woman inside the home was reportedly recording the incident.
Troopers reported detecting a strong odor of alcohol on Martin’s breath. He was transported to the Howell County Jail on a 24‑hour hold and declined to provide a blood sample after being read his Miranda rights.
The Highway Patrol is seeking charges including:
- Assault on a law enforcement officer
- Leaving the scene of a crash
- Resisting arrest
- Driving while intoxicated
- Careless and imprudent driving
- Failure to maintain financial responsibility
