LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Authorities in Nevada say a 19-year-old driver traveling 100 mph in a 45-mph zone intentionally caused a devastating 12-car crash that killed his pregnant girlfriend and another motorist. Investigators believe the teen made no attempt to brake before slamming into cars stopped at a red light, leading prosecutors to pursue murder charges.
Incident Overview
Police identified the suspect as Jose Gutierrez, 19, who was behind the wheel of a silver 2011 Infiniti G37 on Tuesday at the intersection of West Cheyenne Avenue and North Jones Boulevard. Riding in the passenger seat was his pregnant girlfriend, Adilene Rincon, 20, who was critically injured and later died. Another driver, Edward Garcia, 38, was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, Gutierrez was traveling more than double the posted speed limit when he crashed directly into several cars waiting at the red light. The violent impact triggered a chain reaction that involved 12 vehicles.
A detailed report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal and local authorities outlines the severity and intentional nature of the collision.
Police and Officials’ Statements
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson said evidence, including video footage, indicates Gutierrez acted intentionally.
“He was not impaired by alcohol or drugs,” Wolfson said. “Therefore, we believe based on all of the evidence to date, including a very descriptive video, that his actions were intentional, which gives rise to a charge of murder.”
Wolfson added:
“All indications are that there was no braking before the collision, and that by itself gives rise to a degree of intentional conduct.”
Las Vegas Metro Police confirmed in a Facebook post that:
“Several others were transported to UMC Trauma, including one person in life-threatening condition and another in serious condition.”
A marijuana vape was found in Gutierrez’s pocket, but investigators concluded he was not impaired at the time of the crash.
Timeline of Events
- Tuesday: Gutierrez allegedly drives at 100 mph, crashes into vehicles at a red light.
- Thursday: Las Vegas Metro Police release further details, confirming multiple hospitalizations.
- Friday: Gutierrez appears briefly in court; bail hearing is postponed.
- Jan. 6: Suspect is scheduled to return for arraignment.
Gutierrez’s Past Incidents and Criminal History
Court records show Gutierrez has a documented history of reckless behavior:
- In October, he was cited for speeding 52 mph in a 35 mph zone.
- In April, he was arrested for intimidating a police officer responding to a battery report.
According to court documents, during that encounter Gutierrez allegedly said:
“What’s up foo.”
“I’ll f—ing shoot you. I’ll kill you.”
These past incidents paint a troubling pattern of escalating danger, culminating in the fatal crash.
Key Facts
- Suspect: Jose Gutierrez, 19
- Victim 1: Adilene Rincon, 20 (pregnant girlfriend)
- Victim 2: Edward Garcia, 38
- Speed at crash: 100 mph in a 45 mph zone
- Vehicles involved: 12
- Location: West Cheyenne Avenue & North Jones Boulevard, Las Vegas
- Charges: Initially reckless driving; upgraded to open murder, attempted murder, battery with a deadly weapon
- Court date: January 6
Dangers of High-Speed Driving
Crashes involving excessive speed often lead to far greater damage, with increased risk of fatalities due to force of impact. Transportation safety analysts warn that driving at 100 mph gives drivers virtually zero reaction time, while the vehicle becomes nearly uncontrollable.
Intentional or not, such behavior poses severe public safety risks—especially at busy intersections during peak traffic hours.
Public Safety Awareness
Authorities encourage drivers to remain vigilant and report reckless behavior when possible. High-speed crashes have been on the rise in several U.S. cities, and officials emphasize that early reporting can sometimes prevent tragedies.
Residents are also reminded to maintain safe driving distances, follow speed limits, and stay alert at intersections—areas known for higher crash rates.
Conclusion
As prosecutors prepare to move forward with murder charges against Jose Gutierrez, the Las Vegas community continues to mourn the loss of two lives, including that of a young pregnant woman. The case has sparked renewed discussions about reckless driving, accountability, and public safety on Nevada’s roads.
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