Family and friends gathered to mourn the death of a 13-year old boy after he was struck in a rollover crash while riding his bicycle home from school in south Phoenix on Friday, Dec. 1st. The teenage driver of that vehicle is now being investigated for suspicion of impaired driving by the Phoenix Police Department. The incident occurred shortly before 5:00 p.m. when the victim, 13-year old Cordell Gooch, who was on his way home from CJ Jorgenson Elementary School, was struck by a 17-year old driver near 19th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road.
According to Phoenix Police Department, the teenage driver was traveling south on 19th Avenue when for unknown reasons he crossed over the median into the northbound lanes, striking Gooch as he rode on the sidewalk. Gooch was thrown 75-feet from his bike after being hit by the vehicle. Authorities arrived and pronounced Gooch dead at the scene. The teenage driver remained at the scene of the crash and police say the driver displayed signs of impairment. The teen driver did not have a valid driver's license. The suspect's identity and charges are pending until the toxicology reports come back, and investigators reconstruct the collision scene. His family wants the public to know Cordell was more than just a victim. He loved sports, dancing, reading and science. "Cordell was a bright, intelligent, loving person who loved his family," said Kim Johnson, Cordell’s aunt. “You don’t expect it to happen and it’s very difficult,” said Johnson.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto collision, Accident Lawyer Arizona strongly encourages you to call our car accident professionals at (877) 791-4777 for a free consultation. Our highly skilled and experienced lawyers will provide you with the best legal representation and guidance that you need. Our offices are conveniently located in the Phoenix Metropolitan area and we conduct regular travels in the state to meet with clients. Reach out to us directly to speak with a car accident lawyers whenever you need one!
