Deadly High-Speed Crash in Las Vegas Leaves Two Dead, Four Injured; Driver Booked on Reckless Driving Charges
Las Vegas, NV — A tragic crash Tuesday afternoon in the northwest Las Vegas valley has left the community reeling. Two people were killed and four others hospitalized after a 12-vehicle collision at the intersection of Cheyenne Avenue and Jones Boulevard, law enforcement said.
What Happened
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), the incident occurred around 3:29 p.m. when a vehicle travelling eastbound on Cheyenne Avenue struck several cars waiting at the intersection. Initial reports by Deputy Chief Jose Hernandez indicated that the crash killed two people, and four others were transported to the hospital.
Though Hernandez stated in the initial briefing that both victims were drivers, a later crash report clarified that one of the fatalities was a driver and the other was a passenger.
Identities of the Victims
The two deceased have been identified:
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A 20-year-old female passenger from the Infiniti involved, who died at the scene.
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A 38-year-old male driver from another vehicle involved in the crash.
Additionally, medical crews confirmed: -
A 24-year-old female passenger sustained life-threatening injuries.
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Two other drivers suffered serious injuries: a 27-year-old male and the 19-year-old driver who was later booked.
The Suspect and Charges
The 19-year-old driver has been identified as Jose Gutierrez. Police allege that he was speeding at the time of the crash and have booked him in absentia on four counts of reckless driving resulting in death or substantial bodily harm.
Gutierrez remains hospitalized at UMC for his injuries; the booking was processed while he receives treatment.
Scene Response
First-responders arriving on scene found a chaotic site: multiple vehicles heavily damaged, intersection closed in all directions, and three serious injuries plus two fatalities. Medical crews began triage immediately, and four victims were transported to the University Medical Center (UMC) for advanced care.
Investigation teams with LVMPD are gathering data from surveillance, electronic logging, vehicle speed sensors, and witness accounts to determine the full sequence of events.
Community Impact & Official Response
Deputy Chief Hernandez described the crash as a “devastating reminder” of how deadly high speeds can be, stating: “This has to stop… our officers are tired of responding to scenes like this where innocent people—lives are taken.”
Local communities along Cheyenne Avenue and Jones Boulevard are expressing grief and frustration. Residents say the intersection has seen previous accidents and are calling for increased enforcement, speed reduction measures and traffic-control redesign to prevent future tragedies.
Analysis & Prevention
Experts say that crashes involving excessive speed and multiple vehicles are among the most lethal on urban roads. When a driver enters an intersection at high speed, especially if the traffic is moderate to heavy, the chances of catastrophic outcomes rise dramatically.
This incident underscores the importance of:
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Strict enforcement of speed limits in high risk zones.
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Use of red-light cameras or speed detection at major intersections.
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Public awareness campaigns about the lethality of reckless driving.
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Infrastructure reviews to ensure intersections are clearly signed, have sufficient sightlines and support safe stopping distances.
What Happens Next
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LVMPD’s Major Traffic Collision Investigation Unit will reconstruct the crash, using speed-data, vehicle damage patterns, and contact points to determine fault.
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Prosecutors will review findings to decide if additional charges beyond reckless driving (such as vehicular homicide) may apply for Gutierrez.
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The families of the deceased are likely to be provided victim services and updates on the investigation as it proceeds.
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Community leaders and advocacy groups may push for legislative or infrastructural changes focusing on speed enforcement and intersection safety.
A Reminder of the Cost
Two lives ended. Four others hurt. A community left shaken.
While investigations unfold and legal processes take their course, what remains undeniable is the human toll: families mourning, friends devastated and a stark warning that moments of inattention or recklessness can lead to life-altering consequences.
The victims — a 20-year-old woman full of future plans, and a 38-year-old driver whose home lay ahead of him — will not be forgotten. Their names join the growing list of tragedies that remind us of the value of safe driving, the fragility of life and the imperative to protect one another on our roads.
May we find lessons in this tragedy, and commit to driving decisions that respect every life we share the road with.









