Accident Involving Chandler Police Chief Under Investigation

By Rusty Surette, NEWS 9

CHANDLER, Oklahoma -- The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is investigating a car crash involving the Chandler police chief and his wife.

The crash happened near Chandler in Lincoln County earlier this month. Chief Kevin Towler suffered minor injuries, but his wife was seriously hurt in the accident and is now recovering at the OU Medical Center in Oklahoma City with several broken bones, according to Chandler City Manager James Melson.

"I understand he was on his way back from Shawnee and on his way to his brother's house when he crashed," Melson said. "He wasn't working and he was not in a city vehicle at the time."

Melson said Towler has taken sick time off work. Meanwhile, OHP investigators have been called into help determine exactly what happened.

"We were requested by the Lincoln County District Attorney to look into this accident," said OHP Spokesman Chris West. "At this time we're asking everyone contact the D.A.'s office for additional information."

Lincoln County District Attorney Richard Smothermon said his office is looking into the accident, but declined to release further details.

"Because of the delicate nature of this accident, I won't comment on it until the OHP investigation is complete and returned to my office," Smothermon said.

Towler's wife was released from the hospital Thursday.