A weeks-long investigation into a deadly pre-dawn crash in Bullhead City has led to the arrest of a Laughlin man, with detectives warning that more arrests are likely as they dig deeper into what happened on Feb. 19.
Arrest and Charges
Police arrested James Patrick Barr in Laughlin on Wednesday in connection with the death of a 40-year-old pedestrian and booked him on a count of second-degree murder and a charge of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, according to 12 News. The outlet reported that Barr was taken into custody in Nevada and is being held at the Mohave County jail in Kingman while the investigation continues. Prosecutors have not said whether they plan to seek any additional charges.
Crash Details
Bullhead City officers say the victim, identified as Moses James Michael French, 40, was struck in the early hours of Feb. 19 near Highway 95 and Hancock Road and was pronounced dead at the scene, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. Police said the driver involved initially fled the area before officers arrived.
Investigation Updates
Detectives say French was reportedly assaulted inside a vehicle and then struck by a second vehicle, and that the probe has involved interviews and evidence collected across multiple jurisdictions, according to 12 News. Police told reporters they expect more arrests as the investigation continues and asked anyone with information to contact the Bullhead City Police Department at (928) 763-9200. Authorities have not released details about a possible motive or any other suspects.
What the Charges Mean
Barr faces a second-degree murder charge along with the leaving-the-scene count. Second-degree murder in Arizona covers killings without premeditation and some reckless conduct that causes death, and it is treated as a class 1 felony with lengthy prison terms, according to FindLaw.
Bullhead City police say their work on the case is far from over and are again asking anyone with tips, video, or other information tied to the Feb. 19 incident to come forward. Even small details, they note, can be critical in a case like this.
