Passenger killed in racing-related crash
Passenger killed in car driven by sister.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Tragic Racing-Related Crash in Las Vegas Claims the Life of Sisters

LAS VEGAS (FOX5/Gray News) – The devastating aftermath of a racing-related crash in Las Vegas has left a community reeling, as the two drivers involved have been identified as sisters, according to an arrest report.

The Events Leading to the Tragic Crash

On the fateful night of Feb. 21, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department received a distressing call at 1:41 a.m. reporting a collision on East Silverado Ranch Boulevard near Bermuda Road.

Investigations revealed that an orange 2022 Chevrolet Camaro and a maroon 2023 Mazda MX5 were racing down East Silverado Ranch Boulevard at dangerously high speeds. The cars collided, causing the Chevrolet to hit a retaining wall and the Mazda to crash into a light pole and tree.

Tragically, the passenger in the Mazda, identified as 24-year-old Jessica Dettlaff, was unable to escape the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses reported seeing her bleeding from the head, highlighting the severity of the impact.

Identifying the Drivers Involved

The driver of the Camaro, 24-year-old Jonathan Gallagher, was found to be alone in his vehicle and sustained minor injuries. He cooperated with authorities and passed a sobriety test before being taken to University Medical Center for treatment.

The driver of the Mazda, 26-year-old Melissa Dettlaff, revealed that the passenger was her sister, Jessica. Melissa was also injured in the crash and was taken to Sunrise Hospital for medical attention.

During a medical examination, officers detected the smell of alcohol on Melissa Dettlaff’s person. Due to her condition, she was unable to complete a sobriety test, and blood samples were taken for analysis.

Legal Ramifications and Court Proceedings

Both Gallagher and Melissa Dettlaff admitted to authorities that they had been at Distill Bar prior to the collision. Investigations revealed that the Camaro was travelling at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour, while the Mazda reached speeds above 80 miles per hour.

Both drivers are now facing charges of reckless driving resulting in death or bodily harm and participating in a “speed contest.” Additionally, Melissa Dettlaff could potentially face DUI charges pending the results of the blood tests.

Gallagher posted bail the day after the crash and is scheduled to appear in court on March 27. Melissa Dettlaff also posted bail and was released under electronic monitoring, with a court date set for March 26. She has been prohibited from driving as part of the conditions of her release.

The tragic loss of Jessica Dettlaff serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.

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Passenger killed racing-related crash car driven sister police say

Long-tailed keyword: Passenger killed racing-related crash car driven sister police say.