The Queen Creek Police Department (QCPD) is investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Wednesday, June 5 at the intersection at Power Road and Hunt Highway.
Due to the crash occurring on a jurisdictional boundary, QCPD is working collaboratively with the Pinal County Regional Vehicular Crimes Task Force (PCRVCTF) in the investigation.
The crash involved two vehicles. The victim's vehicle was stopped at the stop sign when the suspect's vehicle rear-ended it at nearly 60 mph with no braking.
There were three occupants in the victims' vehicle. One adult and one child sustained minor injuries. The third occupant, a 4-year-old female, was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The suspect driver, 33-year-old Jason Sanchez, had a BAC of 0.11 at the time of the crash, according to intoxilyzer test results. Sanchez was booked into the Pinal County Jail Wednesday evening on charges of aggravated assault and DUI.
Tragically, the 4-year-old victim passed away at the hospital on Thursday.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family during this incredibly difficult time, the loss of a child is unimaginable,” said Queen Creek Police Chief Randy Brice. “Drinking and driving is a reckless and dangerous choice that endangers the lives of everyone on the road.”
"This is a complete tragedy, and we mourn alongside the child's family," said Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb. "When you choose to drink and drive, you knowingly accept that this could be the outcome. What a terrible choice to make."
Due to the child's passing, the suspect will now also face an additional charge of second-degree murder.
QCPD said this remains an active and ongoing investigation.
