MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop E Headquarters - 4947 Highway 67 North - Poplar Bluff, MO 63901


News Release

For further information please contact: Trooper Clark D. Parrott
(573) 840-9500, Ext. 221
E08171139
August 17, 2011

EMPHASIS: Patrol Apprehends Suspect In Fatal Leaving The Scene Traffic Crash


On August 16, 2011, at 11:00 p.m., the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Cletis W. Powell Jr., 35, for felony leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash. Powell Jr.’s arrest was the result of a fatal traffic crash that occurred on August 14, 2011, in Butler County. The crash resulted in the death of 18-year-old Alexander C. Metzing, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri. The investigation also resulted in the recovery of a blue pick-up truck driven by Powell Jr. at the time of the crash.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol sought the assistance from the media and public in the search for this vehicle. The Patrol received numerous tips and leads throughout the investigation and is thankful for the assistance that led investigators to the recovery of the truck and arrest of Powell Jr.

The charges for which Powell Jr. has been arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
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