Suspect in fatal crash has lengthy criminal history

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Tonight we are learning more about the man police said is responsible for killing a two year old while driving under the influence. We have been digging into Jonathan Alexander Hayes criminal past.

We went to the New Hanover County Courthouse this afternoon and pulled case summaries for Hayes. The fatal accident earlier this week was by no means his first run in with the law. We were able to find charges dating back to 2009 for driving while impaired, speeding, and reckless driving to endanger. That charge alone is handed down to a person who drives carelessly in willful disregard of the right of safety of others.

But that’s not all, over the last eight years, court documents show Hayes in and out of the courtroom time and time again facing charges ranging from breaking and entering to possession of a stolen firearm.

The case summaries show charges for driving while having a revoked license while impaired both this year and last year.

Meanwhile at the scene of that fatal accident, which happened near the intersection of Oleander and Independence, a memorial has been erected for the toddler, Mason Richardson, who died. Flowers, balloons, toys and a cross have been put up to honor the little boy’s memory.

Hayes remains in jail tonight under a $59 million bond. He now faces charges of second degree murder for the death of that little boy.