A 19-year-old man is facing serious felony charges after authorities say he was driving more than double the posted speed limit when his vehicle triggered a 12-car crash in the Cincinnati area, killing his pregnant girlfriend and another driver.
What Investigators Say Happened
Police say Jose Gutierrez was traveling approximately 100 mph in a 45 mph zone when his vehicle collided with traffic, setting off a chain-reaction crash involving a dozen vehicles. The crash killed 20-year-old Adilene Rincon, who was pregnant with Gutierrez’s child, and 38-year-old Edward Garcia. Additional victims were injured, with at least one reported to be in life-threatening condition following the crash.
Why Prosecutors Believe the Crash Was Intentional
Investigators say Gutierrez showed no signs of alcohol or drug impairment at the scene. Instead, prosecutors have pointed to video evidence indicating the vehicle did not brake before impact, which they say supports their position that the crash was a deliberate act rather than an accident. Based on that evidence, Gutierrez has been charged with open murder, attempted murder, and using a vehicle as a deadly weapon. As with any pending criminal case, these are accusations, and Gutierrez is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Background and Case Status
According to authorities, Gutierrez had a prior record that included speeding violations and an arrest related to an encounter with a police officer. His bail hearing has been postponed, with his next scheduled court appearance set for January 6. Prosecutors say they are continuing to assess the full scope of the injuries and damage caused by the crash.
The crash has drawn significant attention in the region as authorities continue investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal chain-reaction collision.