On October 21st, at approximately 9:48 p.m., West Plains Police responded to a residence in Howell County following reports of a male suspect looking into windows. Witnesses identified the suspect as Matthew Kester, who fled the scene and later collided with a vehicle belonging to Victim One.
According to police reports, Victim One was visiting Victim Two when a neighbor alerted them to a man in a black hoodie peering into the bedroom window shared by Victim Two and her daughter. Victim One confronted the suspect, recognizing him as Victim Two’s former boyfriend, Matthew Kester.
Kester allegedly attempted to flee in his white Chevrolet van, prompting Victim One to block his path with a gray Ford F-150. Kester then reportedly reversed and drove forward multiple times, striking the occupied truck with enough force to move it. Officers documented over $1,000 in damage to the Ford, including the bumper, hood, and driver’s side panel.
Victim Two later told officers that Kester admitted to damaging the vehicle and suggested he would falsely claim Victim One had pointed a gun at him to justify his actions.
Police located Kester at a nearby convenience store wearing clothing matching witness descriptions. After waiving his Miranda rights, Kester claimed he had come to retrieve a phone charger, despite parking a quarter mile away and having $175 in cash. He also alleged that Victim One pointed a shotgun at him, though later conceded he may have been mistaken due to poor lighting.
Kester admitted to the collisions but claimed he acted out of fear. Officers noted damage to his van consistent with the incident.
Matthew Kester is charged with:
- Property Damage – 1st Degree (§569.100 RSMo)
- Assault – 4th Degree (§565.056 RSMo)
- Trespass – 2nd Degree (§569.150 RSMo)
