A tragic crash involving an off-highway vehicle (OHV) south of Flagstaff has claimed the life of a 19-month-old baby, according to the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the crash just before 11 a.m. Sunday along Forest Service Road 535 and State Route 89A near the top of Oak Creek Canyon. When they arrived, they found that the OHV had rolled over with multiple people inside.
The vehicle was operated by 37-year-old Miguel A. Pacheco. His passengers included a 17-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a 19-month-old baby. Authorities say the two older children were treated for injuries at the scene.
The baby, however, was ejected during the crash and pronounced dead. Investigators say the infant was not properly secured in a child safety seat or appropriate restraint.
The relationship between Pacheco and the children remains unclear at this time.
Following the initial investigation, Pacheco was arrested and booked into jail. He faces possible charges including manslaughter, aggravated assault with a dangerous instrument, felony endangerment, possession or use of a narcotic drug, driving under the influence, reckless driving, and other offenses.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
