The Goodyear cycling crash that occurred more than two years ago has once again made headlines, as the driver at the center of the tragic incident faced surviving victims this week. Pedro Quintana-Lujan is facing 12 misdemeanor charges related to the crash that killed two cyclists and injured many others, as stated in a report by ABC15. The charges, which were filed last year, were revisited in court as the prosecution was allowed to present more evidence.
According to investigation findings, Quintana-Lujan's claim that his truck's steering locked up was challenged by a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report. This report found no mechanical issues with his vehicle, which has seriously called into further question the defendant's account of the incident. Quintana-Lujan's attorney filed a motion to dismiss all but one charge, which seemed to attempt to prevent his client from being punished multiple times for a single act. As ABC15 captured, the attorney stated, "Mr. Quintana-Lujan has been charged with a single act. And we want to make sure that if he’s charged with a single act that he’s not punished 12 separate times for a single act."
The courtroom meeting was described by the victims as challenging, marking the first time they had confronted Quintana-Lujan since the crash. Steve Malisa, the husband of one of the deceased victims, expressed his lack of hatred but desired for some level of accountability. In a sentiment echoed by another victim, the need for Quintana-Lujan to show remorse was emphasized. This was a moment documented by ABC15, where they stated, "I just want to see some remorse," and further questioned the lack of action by Quintana-Lujan in the immediate aftermath of the accident.
While the driver did express regret, stating, "I'm sorry. It wasn't on purpose," to ABC15, the community and victims continue to seek justice. The maximum jail time Quintana-Lujan could face is six months for each count if convicted. His next court appearance is scheduled for mid-April, which may potentially lead to a jury trial, bringing yet another layer to the ongoing legal saga.
Back when the charges were initially filed, emotions ran high among the victims and their families. The news that Quintana-Lujan would be held accountable for at least something provided a small measure of relief. Steve Herzog, whose wife was injured in the crash, recounted the dread of learning at one point that charges might not be filed. As detailed in a report by FOX10 Phoenix, Herzog shared, "It was a sad meeting, especially for the seriously injured that she was just gonna walk away and kick it back because she didn't think she could 100% convict."
