LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A mother and her two young sons were among those killed in a pair of crashes on Henderson roads on Sunday.
Deputy Henderson Police Chief Jonathan Boucher held a briefing Monday afternoon to provide details on the deadly wrecks and urge drivers to exercise more caution.
The first crash happened just after noon on Sunday near Mountain Vista Street and Sunset Road. Police say a 2005 Malibu was driving southbound in the northbound lanes of Mountain Vista. It then crossed the median, crashed into a building, and flipped onto its roof.
A 52-year-old man died in the crash. He has not yet been identified. Deputy Chief Boucher said it’s still unclear if speed, impairment, or a medical episode contributed to the crash.
The second crash happened just before six Sunday evening at Lake Mead Parkway and Grand Cadence Drive.
He blamed speed and impairment for the crash and revealed the arrest of 36-year-old Darryl Smith. Smith has been booked on three counts of DUI resulting in death, and one count of reckless driving.
Deputy Chief Boucher said these types of calls are always tough to handle, for police officers and paramedics alike.
“We thank all of these men and women for their valiant efforts as we know these calls are extremely difficult to navigate and take an emotional toll on all,” he said.
“These distressing incidents underscore the critical of responsible driving. We implore our community, that if you are under the influence of an intoxicating substance, please use a sober driver, or a ride-share company, or a taxi, or a bus. There are many, many options to get home safely.”
Boucher said Henderson has seen an increase in incidents of drunk driving in the past year. In response, he said the department will ramp up patrols and begin conducting more targeted enforcement.
“But enforcement alone cannot prevent tragedies such as these. We implore every citizen to exercise caution, and drive responsibly on our roadways,” he said.
“Driving is the most dangerous activity we take part in every single day, and we have a duty to drive safely for ourselves, for our families, and for our fellow community members. Please slow down. Don’t try to beat the light. Eliminate distractions, and your actions truly will help us save lives.”
“A mother, 38 years old, and her two sons, ages five and six, lost their lives at this intersection last night,” Deputy Chief Boucher added.
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