4-year-old dies after accident with drunk driver in Queen Creek

PHOENIX – A 4-year-old girl died when the vehicle she was traveling in was struck by a drunken driver in Queen Creek on Wednesday, authorities said.

The accident occurred when the victims’ vehicle, which contained an adult and another child, was struck from behind by the suspect at the intersection of Power Road and Hunt Highway at nearly 60 miles per hour and without braking, according to Queen Creek police.

The adult and the other child suffered minor injuries, but the four-year-old was taken to hospital for her injuries. She died there on Thursday.

The suspect, 33-year-old Jason Sanchez, had a blood alcohol content of 0.11 at the time of the accident, according to breathalyzer test results.

Sanchez was sent to prison for premeditated murder, aggravated assault and drunk driving.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time; the loss of a child is unimaginable,” Queen Creek Police Chief Randy Brice said in a press release.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol is a reckless and dangerous decision that endangers the lives of all road users.”

The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.

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