(Phoenix, AZ) A 67th Avenue collision caused by an impaired driver resulted in the death of Juan Andres Ortiz, 38, in west Phoenix.
According to the Phoenix Police Department, officers responded around 3:15 a.m. to reports of a crash near 67th Avenue and Virginia Avenue, just south of Thomas Road. When first responders arrived, they found Ortiz with serious injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, he died at the scene.
Investigators said the crash occurred when Ortiz made a left turn from southbound 67th Avenue onto Virginia Avenue. At the same time, 19-year-old Andy Lepe drove a red sedan northbound at a high rate of speed with no headlights on. At some point, he struck Ortiz’s white pickup truck.
Two additional people were taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution. Police said Lepe showed signs of impairment and arrested him at the scene. He has been booked on multiple charges, including manslaughter, aggravated assault, and endangerment.
Overview on the 67th Avenue Collision
When a crash involves impairment and excessive speed, Investigators review several Arizona laws. The DUI Law makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs to the slightest degree. A conviction under this statute carries severe penalties, especially when the offense results in death.
The Vehicular Manslaughter Law also applies. This refers to when an impaired or reckless driver causes a fatal collision. If prosecutors determine that Lepe’s intoxication and speeding directly led to Ortiz’s death, this statute will guide potential criminal charges.
Investigators also rely on the Basic Speed Law, which requires drivers to maintain speeds reasonable and prudent for the conditions. This includes nighttime visibility and other traffic. Violating this rule can establish negligence in deadly collisions like this one.
Support for Ortiz’s Family
If you are a relative of Juan Andres Ortiz, you should stay in touch with the Phoenix Police Department to request a copy of the official collision report once it is available. This report will include investigative findings that may assist with insurance or legal actions.
You may also wish to contact a wrongful-death attorney who can help explain your family’s rights and options for compensation under Arizona law. Legal support can be crucial in holding impaired drivers accountable for the harm they cause.
Finally, take time to seek emotional and community support. Local organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving and grief counseling services in Phoenix can help families process the pain and loss caused by DUI-related crashes.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
