Former Bourbon Man Charged In Fatal DWI Crash

A former Bourbon man was charged in April for a fatal DWI crash that occurred last year.

Andrew T. Barton, 34, now of Washington, was charged April 20 with DWI — death of another passenger and DWI — physical injury.

A warrant was issued for Barton’s arrest and served April 26. He was released on bond the same day. 

Barton was arrested May 28, 2022 in a crash that killed a Villa Ridge man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Barton was driving a 2012 Ford F-150 and crossed the center line on St. Mary’s Road. He drove into the path of a 2007 Dodge Caravan driven by Micah Shurtleff, 45.

The front left corner of Barton’s truck struck the front left of Shurtleff’s van.

Shurtleff was taken to Mercy Hospital and pronounced dead at nearly an hour after the crash.

Margo Wertenberger, St. Clair, was a passenger in Shurtleff’s vehicle. She had minor injuries.

Barton also sustained minor injuries.

He was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold.

Barton is scheduled to appear in court July 13.

The crime for a fatal DWI crash is up to 10 years in prison, while accidents causing bodily injury is punishable up to seven years in prison.