Two People Hurt, One Sent to Jail After Crash

A head on collision in Paducah injured two people, and landed one of them in jail.  The McCracken County Sheriff's Department says the crash happened just before 6:30 pm, Thursday, when deputies were dispatched to the intersection of John Puryear and Meacham Lane.

Deputies say Patrick Bangert, 48 of Paducah, was operating his 2009 Ford pickup northbound when witnesses stated he crossed into the passing lane of the southbound lanes. Witnesses stated that Bangert then collided with another vehicle traveling in the inner lane in a head on collision.

Kimberly Beanland, 36 of Boaz, KY, was operating a 2007 Ford Mustang southbound when Bangert traveled into her lane. Investigation showed skid marks in the inner lane showing Beanland attempted to stop before making contact with Bangert. Investigation showed that Bangert failed to yield the right of way to Beanland and struck Beanland in a head on collision.

Deputies say a preliminary breath test on scene along with observation showed signs of alcohol use in Bangert.  Bangert stated he had just left Captain’s Place bar and was attempting to travel home.

Police say Bangert believed he was in the turn lane but was actually traveling northbound in the southbound passing lane upon making contact with Beanland. Both occupants were transported to area hospitals for non-life threatening injuries. Bangert was eventually released from the hospital, and then taken into custody.

Bangert has been charged with: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs/ect .08 (Aggravated Circumstances) – A class B misdemeanor, Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree – A class D Felony, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree – A class D Felony.