SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man accused in a fatal crash that left passenger dead made a court appearance last week.
Charles Smith Jr. 30, man was charged with involuntary manslaughter, aggravated battery, DUI causing great bodily harm and driving while suspended, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.
Just after 2:30a.m. December 14, police were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash in the 1700 block of S. Mosley in Wichita, according to a media release.
First responders located a white 4-door sedan that had collided with multiple trees. Lanashia Clay, 22, from Wichita was seated in the front passenger seat and was pronounced deceased at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
A 25-year-old woman from Wichita was the rear seat passenger. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries.
The 30-year-old driver later identified as Smith was also transported to a local hospital for treatment. After being medically cleared, he was taken into custody on requested charges of Involuntary Manslaughter, Aggravated Battery-DUI, and Driving after suspended.
Preliminary investigation indicated that alcohol and drugs were suspected to be contributing factors in the crash, according to police. Smith is no longer in custody. He is due back in court Feb. 20, according to the district attorney's office.