Suspect’s side of the story in Matthew Wiggins manslaughter case

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - We’re learning new details surrounding the death of Matthew Wiggins.

According to court documents, 29-year-old Mark Anthony Flores Jr. is charged with manslaughter. Prosecutors say his actions during an altercation recklessly caused Wiggins’ death.

Wiggins, who was described by close friends as loyal, always ready to listen and help, was found severely injured the night of September 27 in the middle of Moffett Road. He died 8 days later.

Flores’ attorney, Josh Briskman, said his client and Matthew were longtime friends. The two were watching a football game with other people the night he was found in the middle of the road.

“Unfortunately, Matt was very intoxicated, and they had to leave there because he was not capable of standing up,” Briskman said. “On the way home, there were some things that happened in the car where Mr. Flores felt that he was no longer safe. Matt was in the backseat and was impeding his ability to drive quite aggressively.”

Briskman said Flores’ girlfriend was also in the car. He said Flores couldn’t keep driving with Wiggins acting violent, so he pulled over to a safe spot close to where Wiggins was found to drop him off.

FOX10 News uncovered court documents pertaining to this case. The words “Strange Facts” are written on one page.

While many questions still surround this case, Briskman says he and his client are also looking for answers.

“We do not know, and they do not know how he came to be deceased,” he said. “Mr. Flores is heartbroken over the loss of his friend and obviously, he wishes he was still here; he’s not responsible for what happened.”

Briskman told me after his client dropped Wiggins off, he called 911. I’ve requested those transcripts and will let you know what they say once we get them.

Flores has since been released on bond. He’s scheduled to be back in court Oct. 29.