COLUMBIA — The trial for Matthew Shilling, 43, charged with manslaughter in a February 2024 crash, began Wednesday in Boone County.
Shilling faces five charges, including involuntary manslaughter, armed criminal action, assault, and driving with a suspended license. The crash occurred on February 2, 2024, when a truck rear-ended a motorcycle, pushing it into an SUV at the intersection of Business Loop 70 and Hathman Place.
Christina Mayfield, 32, a passenger on the motorcycle, died from injuries sustained in the incident. Her husband, Matthew Mayfield, testified that he was aware of the crash only after regaining consciousness at a hospital.
During the trial, a 911 dispatcher recounted Shilling’s call following the crash, where he repeatedly stated he did not mean to hit the motorcycle. Witnesses confirmed that Shilling’s vehicle did not slow down before the collision.
Court documents noted that surveillance footage showed Shilling driving at a high speed prior to the crash, with no evidence indicating he attempted to brake. At the time of the incident, Shilling’s driving privileges were suspended, with a history of nine prior convictions for driving offenses.
Jury selection for the trial lasted approximately four hours, starting at 8:15 a.m. and concluding at 12:45 p.m. The investigation remains ongoing as the court proceedings continue.