LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The driver in a suspected DUI crash that left one man dead and two others injured is pleading not guilty to the charges she faces.
Maria Gonsalez was wheeled into court Tuesday morning with her right leg in a brace. The 21-year-old is accused of being impaired and driving at a high rate of speed when her Ford Mustang collided with a Nissan truck driven by 49-year-old Juan Santana-Savalza, who was pronounced dead at the scene of the May 23 crash. A passenger in the Mustang suffered critical injuries.
WATCH | Channel 13 was at the scene of the crash early Saturday morning:
According to the arrest report, authorities smelled a "heavy odor" of an unknown alcoholic beverage on Gonsalez. Police said there was also a bottle of Don Julio tequila in "plain and open view" on the passenger side floorboard of the Mustang.
Gonsalez is facing charges related to driving under the influence and reckless driving. She is set to begin her trial on Sept. 8.
-
Report: Man pepper-sprayed suspect in flower robbery ahead of fatal shooting
According to the arrest report, the incident began when Rodger Harrison III allegedly stole flowers from a woman selling them in the area of Upland and Jones, near the I-11.
Apparent murder-suicide leaves couple dead, LVMPD investigates
After receiving a call for servicxe about a battery situation, responding LVMPD officers found a couple dead inside a home.
Apparent murder-suicide leaves couple dead, LVMPD investigates
After receiving a call for servicxe about a battery situation, responding LVMPD officers found a couple dead inside a home.
Men agree to plead guilty to killing Las Vegas tourist during crime spree
Prosecutors have reached guilty plea agreements with Jordan Ruby and Jesani Carter, who went on a crime spree across the valley in late 2021.