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WPD closer to recommending charges for driver in bizarre deadly accident

July 27, 2011|By Brian Heap | KWCH 12 Eyewitness News

(WICHITA, Kan.) — Police acknowledge it's a story with a shock factor. 

On June 10, a Wichita doctor jumped the curb on Greenwich with his SUV and struck a landscaper.  Investigators said he then drove to his home about three miles away with the body stuck on the roof the whole time.

To some in the court of public opinion the case is cut and dry and worthy of jail time.  But to the investigators responsible for finding justice, it's not so simple.  That's why no formal charges have been filed nearly seven weeks later.

"We have to stay within the confines of the law and we have to make sure that we're being fair to everybody involved while still showing some understanding to the family that's had the loss," said WPD Lt. Joe Schroeder.

Police and KHP investgators have done independent reenactments and came up with the same results, Schroeder said.  He added the driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol. 

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Schroeder said the driver will almost certainly be charged with leaving the scene of a deadly accident, a relatively low-level felony.  To charge him with anything more severe, police would need to prove his actions before and during the accident were criminal.

"If I had to go present the case right now without having all the other questions answered, the only charge I would be able to charge would be leaving the scene of a fatality collision," said Schroeder.

Facts are still being gathered and evaluated.  The case should be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office within two weeks.

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