Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Press Release March 27, 2018

​On March 27, 2018 just after midnight, a Deputy noticed a dark colored Ford Ranger driving on the St Clair overpass toward the N. Service Rd. The rear tail lights on the truck were not functioning, so the Deputy attempted to stop the vehicle as it turned onto the N. Service Rd. The truck continued on without stopping and then turned on to Hwy WW. The pursuit continued down Hwy WW until the truck approached Reiker's Ford River Access. Due to recent heavy rains, the river level was up at this time. The driver of the truck continued driving the truck into the river with 2 other occupants inside. The truck stalled before making it half way across the Bourbeuse River causing St Clair Fire Department to respond for a river rescue. All occupants of the truck were safely rescued and removed from the vehicle. The driver, 21 year old, Devin Gauer from Union, MO was arrested for 2 active warrants and charges are being sought against him for operating a motor vehicle on a highway without a valid driver's license, resisting arrest by flight creating a substantial risk of injury and failing to displayed lighted tail lamps. The other occupants, 53 year old, Henry Phillips of St Clair was arrested for an active Franklin County Municipal warrant and the 23 year old female occupant from St Clair was released without charges. The Sheriff would like to thank St. Clair Fire Department for their assistance.
 
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law
 
 
Steve Pelton
Franklin County Sheriff