An alleged DUI Driver caused the death of two Las Vegas residents on Wednesday, in a traffic accident on Summerlin Parkway. A GMC pickup is said to have veered off the parkway before crossing the median west of Rampart Boulevard, and hitting a Toyota Corolla head on.
At first glance, Nevada Highway Patrol Officers who responded to the accident where not sure what caused the pickup to cross into oncoming traffic, but later have stated, that they believe alcohol may be a factor. The two passengers of the Corolla, were identified as, Las Vegas residents, Frank Spenia III and Savanna Gonzales. According to Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Loy Hixson, the driver of the pickup is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol “DUI”, and has been taken to University Medical Center in critical condition.
Typically, a first time DUI offense is a misdemeanor in Las Vegas, unless there is an accident which results in substantial bodily harm or death. It is not known at this time the identity of the alleged DUI driver, but regardless of his prior criminal history or lack thereof, if his blood test comes back with alcohol and/or drugs in his system, he will likely be charged with two felony counts of DUI Resulting in Death. A DUI driver who causes the death of another faces 2-20 years of prison even if they have no prior criminal history. If this driver had a previous felony DUI conviction, and is charged with DUI resulting in Death in this case, he faces 25 years to life in prison.
-Michael A. Troiano, Esq.
sources: https://www.fox5vegas.com/story/24647267/2-killed-in-head-on-collision/
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/feb/05/two-killed-crash-summerlin-parkway/
http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/two-killed-summerlin-crash-identified