News release from the Newport PD. On Wednesday, 09/03/2014, Newport Police Officers responded to a report of an unwanted person at a residence in Newport. The suspect was reported to be outside the victim’s residence in a black Jeep that was parked on the street in front of the victim’s residence. Officers responded and contacted Matthew D. Simmons, age 38 of Siletz, passed out behind the wheel of the Jeep. Simmons’ jeep had fresh front-end damage, and crash debris lodged in the grill and lying on the hood. Officers checked the area and located a Honda CRV, which was parked several blocks away on NE Coos St. The crash debris found at the victim’s vehicle matched the debris found on Simmons’ vehicle. Simmons displayed signs of impairment when questioned by Police Officers. He was taken into custody, then transported to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital for an evaluation. He was released from the hospital and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail. He was charged with DUII; Unlawful Possession Oxycodone; Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree; Reckless Driving; Driving While Suspended; Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver Involved in an Accident; and Hit and Run Vehicle-Property. His bail was set at $145,000.
