Gasconade County Republican

Saturday, March 16 at approximately 5:40 p.m., a Pontiac Vibe passenger car driven by a 50-year-old Gerald resident backed into the rear entrance of the Gerald Nursing and Rehab building on Canaan Road.

The driver of the vehicle had been there earlier visiting a friend when he left to purchase a bottle of Pepsi for that friend. Upon returning, he was unable to gain access through the front doors. He returned to his vehicle then drove to the rear of the building and into the rear entrance, causing several thousands of dollars of damage.

Personnel from Gerald Police, Gerald-Rosebud Fire Department and Gerald Area Ambulance all responded to the scene.

The driver was trapped in the vehicle and with assistance of emergency personnel was able to exit through the rear hatch. He was not injured, nor were any residents or staff of the facility. Luckily, all residents were in another area of the building eating supper. 

At his request, the driver was transported by emergency personnel to a St. Louis area hospital for a psychiatric evaluation.