DIX – A Centralia woman is facing a DUI charge after she struck her own husband, killing him, in the parking lot at Dollar General in Dix Monday night.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded just after 8 p.m. to the store on a report that someone had been stuck by a vehicle. Illinois State Police also responded.

Deputies learned at the scene that 49-year-old Jeffrey D. Howes of Centralia had been struck by his own vehicle driven by his wife, 54-year-old Melissa K. Howes of Centralia.

Deputies and first responders attempted rescue efforts on Jeffrey Howes at the scene. He was taken to  SSM Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon where he died.  

Deputies noticed Melissa Howes was alcohol impaired. Sheriff’s detectives were contacted to assist.

After completing the investigation, Melissa Howes was arrested for Aggravated DUI involving a Death. She was taken to and lodged in the Jefferson County Justice Center where she awaits a pre-trial detention hearing.

Online court records showed she appeared in court by video Tuesday afternoon.