Deadly Gilbert Crash: Driver Allegedly Speeds at 96 MPH, DUI

URGENT UPDATE: Shocking new details have emerged in a deadly crash that claimed the lives of two women in Gilbert, Arizona, on September 19, 2023. Authorities report that the driver, who remains hospitalized, was allegedly speeding at 89-96 miles per hour in a 45-mile-per-hour zone prior to the fatal incident.

The tragedy unfolded just before 9 PM at the intersection of Recker and Ray Roads. Police believe that impairment was a significant factor, with the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) recorded at an alarming .287—more than three times the legal limit. Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle weave dangerously, clipping another car before entering the intersection against a red light.

Marisa Jorgenson, a 33-year-old mother of two, and Nicole Snell, a 36-year-old ride-share driver, were struck and killed in the crash. Jorgenson’s father, Tom, expressed disbelief over the excessive speed, stating, “Were you surprised to see how much police said he was speeding? Yeah, I thought he was maybe doing 60 miles per hour, but to hear he was doing almost 100 miles per hour, I mean, who does that?”

The impact of this crash extends far beyond the immediate tragedy. Jorgenson’s family is grappling with the loss, highlighting the emotional toll as they await justice. “There are two beautiful souls that are not living their lives because of his actions,” Tom Jorgenson said, underscoring the profound human cost of the alleged reckless behavior.

Police reports indicate that the driver did not apply the brakes before the collision, and two open single-serve bottles of alcohol were discovered in his vehicle. The crash resulted in the driver’s car flipping over, while Snell’s vehicle collided with a pole. Tragically, Snell’s dog was also killed in the crash.

As investigations continue, authorities are recommending multiple charges against the driver, including two counts of second-degree murder, three counts of endangerment, and one count of animal cruelty. These charges will be forwarded to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for review.

At this time, it remains unclear when the driver will be released from medical care and formally arrested. The community is left in shock as they process the devastating loss and the reckless actions that led to this tragic event.

This urgent situation is still developing, and updates are expected as the case proceeds through the legal system. Stay tuned for more as we follow this heart-wrenching story.