LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Details are emerging about the man accused in a DUI-related crash that left a woman and a child fighting for their lives and led to the death of an unborn child.
Maximiliano Chavez, 27, had previously been arrested multiple times on suspicion of drug use, possession or public drunkenness, according to court documents. He was convicted of a DUI-related offense in Nye County in 2021, FOX5 sources said.
According to FOX5 sources, police at the scene of the fatal crash Saturday said Chavez admitted to drinking three michelada beverages and using a THC vape pen at a swap meet around noon. He told police he was heading home from North Las Vegas.
A witness told police that Chavez was acting erratically after getting out of his vehicle, repeatedly going in and out of the driver’s side door and appearing concerned about a passenger, according to sources. The lone passenger in Chavez’s vehicle was treated for injuries and released. There was no indication of the passenger’s relation to Chavez.
Sources said Chavez failed all field sobriety tests, and that police noted he had bloodshot eyes, an unsteady walk and appeared confused and mumbling. Police also reported a strong odor coming from the vehicle after the crash. Investigators drew a blood sample from Chavez, but results are pending.
The collision occurred just before 2:30 p.m. at Windmill Lane and Las Vegas Boulevard in south Las Vegas and involved four vehicles. One of the victims, a 37-year-old pregnant woman, lost her unborn child. She and a 9-year-old boy suffered life-threatening injuries.
Chavez faces charges including DUI resulting in death, reckless driving and causing substantial bodily harm. He is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.
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