An Wasola man is facing charges following a fatal crash investigation that authorities say left a pedestrian dead along Missouri Highway 181.
According to a probable cause statement, Ransom D. Uchtman is accused in connection with a collision that killed a man whose body was discovered in a ditch along Highway 181 north of U.S. 160 during the early morning hours of Oct. 26. Investigators reported finding evidence at the scene, including paint fragments, blood trails and vehicle debris, suggesting the victim had been struck and thrown north of the impact area.
Authorities later located a damaged white Jeep Wrangler abandoned on County Road 310, less than a mile from the crash scene. Troopers stated the vehicle displayed damage and paint transfer that appeared consistent with evidence recovered where the victim was struck. Investigators also reported finding blood spatter on the Jeep’s hood and roof.
The probable cause statement alleges that Uchtman was involved in a separate crash after the fatal collision and later left the area with his mother after the vehicle was moved from the roadway. Investigators said he told them he could not remember events after approximately 7 p.m. the previous evening. The statement further notes surveillance video allegedly captured the Jeep traveling northbound on Highway 181 at a high rate of speed shortly before the fatal collision.
The probable cause statement was filed Oct. 28 in Ozark County Circuit Court. Uchtman is charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving death and 2nd degree involuntary manslaughter, he is held without bond.
