A young local man is now facing serious felony charges following a fatal ATV crash this past fall.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department said James M. Eschmann, 20, of Columbia, was charged this week with reckless homicide and aggravated DUI for his role in the incident.

Police said that shortly before 6 p.m. on Sept. 13, 2023, the MCSD joined Monroe County EMS and the Waterloo police and fire departments in responding to an ATV crash in the 2600 block of Trout Camp Road. This crash resulted in the death of a passenger identified as David Browning Jr., 17, of St. Louis, who was pronounced deceased shortly after arriving at a local hospital.

Eschmann, the driver of the ATV, was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he received treatment and was released the following morning.

Following the crash, the MCSD sought the assistance of the Illinois State Police Reconstruction and Crime Scene units to assist in an investigation.

Upon completing the investigation, the MCSD presented its findings to the Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office. Subsequently, Monroe County State’s Attorney Ryan Webb issued the charges against Eschmann, who was taken into custody on July 9.

Eschmann will appear before a judge to determine if he will remain in jail or be released pending future court proceedings. He remains in custody at the Monroe County Jail pending pre-trial assignments.