Scoggins
The next-of-kin of a recently deceased man has filed suit against the allegedly intoxicated driver who struck and killed the man.
John L. Wempe filed a lawsuit May 10 in Madison County Circuit Court against Roger A. Stryker.
In his complaint, John Wempe alleges Allen M. Wempe was driving his 2003 Dodge Neon south on Illinois Route 4 about 0.5 miles north of its intersection with Klenke Road in Madison County on March 25 when Stryker, who was driving a 2000 Chevrolet Blazer north on the same road, lost control of his vehicle and struck the Neon.
Because of the collision, Allen Wempe died, leaving behind his daughter, Kelsey Wempe, who lost her father's money, benefits, goods, services and society. Because of Allen Wempe's death, his next-of-kin have suffered grief, sorrow and mental anguish, according to the complaint.
John Wempe blames Stryker for causing the collision, saying he negligently failed to drive within a single lane, failed to properly pass the vehicle Allen Wempe was driving in the opposite direction, failed to give an audible warning with his horn, drove too fast, drove while under the influence of alcohol and failed to keep his vehicle under proper control.
In the complaint, John Wempe seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.
Mark C. Scoggins, Clay B. St. Clair and Anthony P. Gilbreth of Crowder and Scoggins in Columbia will be representing him.
Madison County Circuit Court case number: 12-L-651.