COURT HOUSE – On Thurs., Aug. 18, 2011 at 5:45 a.m., Middle Township Police received a call of a one car motor vehicle crash, into the marsh, at the intersection of Ocean Drive and Old North Wildwood Boulevard. The vehicle was located by a North Wildwood Police Officer, who upon further investigation found the driver and sole occupant, John E. Mathis III of Rio Grande, asleep behind the wheel. Mr. Mathis was awakened by North Wildwood Police.
Upon the arrival of Middle Township Police, it was revealed that Mr. Mathis was traveling West on SH147 (North Wildwood Boulevard), fell asleep, drifted off the roadway to the right at Ocean Drive, and then continued straight until striking an empty boat trailer and the Marsh.
A large amount of marijuana and cash were found in the motor vehicle. Mr. Mathis was arrested for possession of marijuana over 50 grams, and intent to distribute marijuana over 1 ounce. Mr. Mathis was also issued several traffic summonses. Bail was set at $25,000 with ten percent, Mr. Mathis posted bail and was released from the station.
The motor vehicle crash is being investigated by Pltm. Dan Geiger, while the narcotics incident is being investigated by Ptlm. James D’Alonzo.
