DUI Car Crash Kills Local Phoenix Man

Drugs and alcohol likely played a role in a tragic, two-vehicle accident in Phoenix early Wednesday morning that left one man dead and another behind bars. The victim’s family may file a wrongful death lawsuit, as their loved one lost their life as a result of another motorist’s reckless driving.

According to Phoenix Police Lieutenant, Emilien Sapon, a full-size pickup truck being driven by an allegedly intoxicated 36-year-old man, James Coughenour, slammed into a sports car driven by a 21-year-old local man. Coughenour was traveling down 41^st Avenue when he abruptly turned left onto Union Hills Drive, striking the sports car.

Coughenour’s pickup truck hit the sports car with such force that it caused the car to spin out of control and hit a streetlight pole. When officers and first responders arrived at the scene, they found the sports car wrapped completely around the light pole.

The driver of the sports car had to be extracted from the vehicle via the Jaws of Life, which is a hydraulic device used by emergency responders to pry apart wrecked vehicles in order to free someone who is trapped inside.

Once freed, the victim was taken to a nearby hospital. Shortly thereafter, he succumbed to his injuries and passed. Coughenour refused any medical treatment.

Phoenix police stated they have reason to believe Coughenour was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when his truck collided with the victim’s sports car at about 11:30 a.m. Wednesday morning.

While being evaluated by law enforcement officials, Coughenour exhibited suspicious signs of impairment and has since been taken to jail for alleged vehicular manslaughter.

The Phoenix Police Vehicular Crimes Unit spent the majority of the day Wednesday investigating the scene of the accident.

If you have sustained injuries due to another motorist’s reckless or negligent driving, or if you have lost a loved one due to an auto accident wrongful death, contact the Phoenix-area car accident attorneys at Phillips Law Group today. Consulting with our experienced Phoenix injury lawyers immediately after a car accident can help ensure you get the compensation and justice you deserve.

Do not delay. Call 1-800-706-3000 or fill out our FREE Case Review Form above.