A tragic road incident that cost the life of a 4-year-old girl has culminated in a 20-year prison sentence for Jason Sanchez, the man responsible for the fatal collision. According to a news release by the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, and reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, Sanchez had been drinking at a casino before he rear-ended a minivan in Queen Creek, traveling 25 miles per hour over the speed limit.
On the morning of June 5, 2024, the crash occurred at the intersection of Power Road and Hunt Highway. Not only did the collision claim the life of a young girl, but it also left her 6-year-old brother with serious injuries. Analysis of the crash scene by investigators found that Sanchez, driving at 65 mph in a 40 mph zone, did not attempt to brake before striking the van. During the police investigation, he admitted to consuming four beers, and a blood test confirmed a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit, as detailed in a statement obtained by ABC15.
On November 17th, Sanchez was handed his sentence after being convicted on second-degree murder and aggravated assault charges. “This conviction delivers a measure of justice for a senseless and heartbreaking tragedy,” declared Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller in the ABC15 report. “A beautiful four-year-old girl was taken from this world because of one person’s selfish and reckless decision to drive under the influence. Our hearts remain with the family, whose grief is unimaginable. This office will always stand firm in holding impaired drivers accountable and protecting innocent lives on our roads.”…