Tucson, AZ – A 19-year-old University of Arizona student has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly striking and killing three people with his 2019 Porsche Boxster while driving under the influence — then fleeing home to call his wealthy father in California for help and a private lawyer, according to police and court records.
The Incident: Fatal Porsche Crash Kills Three Pedestrians
Authorities say Louis Artal, a Tucson college student, was behind the wheel of a Porsche Boxster on the night of the crash that killed Josiah Santos, 22, his girlfriend Sophia Troetel, 21, and Katya Rosaura Castillo Mendoza, 21.
According to a Tucson Police Department press release, the crash occurred when Artal’s vehicle sped northbound on Euclid Avenue near East Second Street, well above the 30 mph speed limit.
“At that time, three pedestrians were walking eastbound across North Euclid Avenue in a marked crosswalk,” the department stated. “The Porsche did not stop, struck the pedestrians, and fled the scene.”
Police say all three victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators determined that speeding, impairment, and failure to yield to pedestrians were the primary causes of the crash.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Following the collision, witnesses reportedly saw Artal’s Porsche speeding away from the scene without stopping. Law enforcement later traced the vehicle to Artal’s residence, where they believe he fled immediately after the crash.
According to court documents, Artal called his father in California, who is described as a business owner with “significant resources.” His father allegedly instructed him to turn himself in to police, which he did shortly afterward.
During the initial hearing, prosecutors said Artal appeared impaired by alcohol and/or drugs, though toxicology results are still pending. Police recovered evidence from both the crash site and Artal’s car, including physical debris and surveillance footage supporting witness accounts.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
Artal appeared in court last week, facing three counts of second-degree murder, aggravated assault with serious injury, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.
His attorney acknowledged that Artal was involved in the crash but claimed the teen “panicked and didn’t know what to do.”
“I’m not trying to in any way take away from the seriousness of the offense, but my client got scared and didn’t know what to do,” the defense attorney said, according to the Arizona Daily Star.
The attorney also argued for bail, citing that Artal’s father had spent significant resources to hire a private attorney, which he said proved Artal would not flee. The court set bail at $250,000.
Emotional Statements from Victims’ Families
During the court appearance, relatives of the three victims gave emotional statements demanding justice.
“I cannot believe that you drove away and left them there,” said Andrea Santos, mother of victim Josiah Santos.
Sophia Troetel’s mother also addressed the court, describing Artal’s actions as showing a “complete disregard for law and human life.” She urged the judge to impose the highest bail possible to ensure he remains in custody.
All three victims, along with Artal, were students at the University of Arizona, making the tragedy especially devastating for the campus community.
Background and Legal Context
Under Arizona law, second-degree murder can carry a sentence of up to 25 years in prison per count, depending on the circumstances and evidence of impairment. If convicted on all counts, Artal could face a combined sentence exceeding 70 years.
Legal experts have noted that the combination of DUI, reckless speeding, and leaving the scene makes this case particularly severe. The court will also consider whether wealth and resources played a role in Artal’s post-crash actions, especially given that he allegedly sought his father’s help instead of calling 911.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Tucson Police continue to investigate the events leading up to the crash, including toxicology results and witness statements. Prosecutors have indicated that additional charges could be filed depending on the findings.
University officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said counseling services are available for students impacted by the tragedy.
Artal remains in custody as of this week, awaiting his next court appearance.
Conclusion
The deadly crash involving a luxury Porsche and three young victims has reignited conversations about reckless driving, accountability, and privilege in the justice system. As the case moves forward, families of the victims continue to call for maximum punishment for the young driver whose choices ended three promising lives.
What are your thoughts on this case and the role privilege may play in justice? Share your opinions in the comments below.
