Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Man Charged in Fatal Hit and Run Incident in Stevens Point
Portage County District Attorney Cass Cousins has announced that a Wisconsin Rapids man has been formally charged in connection to a tragic hit and run incident that took place on West River Drive in Stevens Point on March 5, 2024.
Suspect Charged with Serious Offenses
The suspect, Kenneth L. Butler, has been charged with hit-and-run causing death and homicide by negligent operation of a vehicle. If convicted on both counts, Butler could face up to 20 years in prison, in addition to fines and a mandatory five-year revocation of his operating privileges.
Arrest and Identification
Following an investigation by the Stevens Point Police Department, Butler was arrested one day after the crash. The victim, identified as 63-year-old Herbert Wievel of Stevens Point, was airlifted to a Wausau hospital after being found by a passing pedestrian. Tragically, Wievel succumbed to his injuries on March 7.
Thanks to an anonymous tipster, Butler was identified as the suspect in the hit and run incident.
Upcoming Court Appearance
Butler is scheduled to appear in circuit court on Monday, March 18 at 1:15 p.m. He is currently being held on a $250,000 cash bond.
It’s important to note that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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