A late-night dirt bike collision in the Wittmann area has left a juvenile rider not expected to survive and put a Maricopa County man in the crosshairs of a criminal case, according to the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. Deputies say both riders were airlifted to Valley hospitals with life-threatening injuries, and investigators allege the adult rider was impaired. The sheriff's vehicular-crimes team is handling the case.
Crash details
Deputies responded shortly after 11 p.m. to the intersection of 215th Avenue and Patton Road, where two dirt bikes collided. Both riders were flown to Valley hospitals, and one was listed as not expected to survive, as reported by Arizona's Family. Investigators are still working to determine what led up to the crash.
Charges sought and impairment alleged
As reported by 12News, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office said it will seek criminal charges against the adult rider and that impairment appeared to be a factor. Prosecutors will review the investigation and evidence before deciding what specific charges to file.
What prosecutors could pursue
Depending on whether officials conclude the rider was negligent or acted recklessly, potential counts could range from impaired-operation offenses under A.R.S. § 28-1381 to negligent homicide or manslaughter under the state's criminal code. See A.R.S. § 28-1381 and Arizona's criminal code for definitions and penalties.
Investigation ongoing
The sheriff's vehicular-crimes unit is leading the probe and will forward its findings to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for charging decisions, the department told 12News. Officials have not released a timeline for possible filings or the identities of the riders involved.
