This petition is more than just a call for justice; it is a deeply personal appeal born out of unimaginable loss. My father, Mark Thomann, lost his life along with Carolyn Volden in a tragic motor vehicle accident. It was an accident that we believe was preventable, caused by Jediah Sheilds. This unfortunate event has filled our lives with grief, sorrow, and a yearning for justice.

Every year, reckless driving claims more than 1,000 lives in the state alone (source: DMV State Report, 2020). This statistic was just a number to us until it touched our family personally. The catastrophic crash involving my father and Carolyn was not just bad luck; recklessness on the part of Jediah Sheilds was a significant factor.

We are now seeking justice for our father and Carolyn. We request the Howard County Prosecutor to press manslaughter charges against Jediah Sheilds to send a clear message about the consequences of reckless driving. It's not just about this single incident but also reinforcing adherence to road safety measures and ensuring accountability for preventable accidents. By signing this petition, you will be supporting our fight for justice and, perhaps more importantly, contributing to a safer community for all its residents.

Obituaries: 

https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/mo/new-franklin/carolyn-volden-18287578 - Carolyn Volden's Obituary (web archive copy of obituary)

https://www.howardfh.com/obituary/Mark-Thomann - Mark Thomann's Obituary (web archive copy of obituary)

Accident Reports:

https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/HP68/AccidentDetailsAction?ACC_RPT_NUM=240319216

pdf version of accident report

News Media Links:

https://www.komu.com/news/midmissourinews/three-vehicle-car-crash-in-howard-county-leaves-five-injured/article_67ab72fc-33bd-11ef-9e76-5b794f929cbe.html

(web archive copy of news article)

https://www.kjluradio.com/newsroom/four-people-seriously-injured-in-three-vehicle-collision-just-north-of-boonville/article_391d3186-3341-11ef-b798-1f4c2e537f29.html

At the time of this petition being written 11/8/2024 only misdemeanor charges have been issued for the court case scheduled for 11/12/2024. 

Jediah Sheilds's case on Missouri Case Net

Sign this petition and join our plea to the Howard County Prosecutor to press the right charges against Jediah Sheilds.

You can also contact Howard County Prosecutor directly to request this in writing or over the phone or via fax.

Howard County Prosecuting Attorney

600 West Morrison Street
Fayette, Missouri, 65248

Phone660-248-3183

Fax 660-248-3245