On Saturday, May 19th, 2018 at approximately 4:56 a.m., a red 1996 BMW 325i, driven by Brandon Cornett, 18, was traveling north on Power Road approaching the westbound Loop 202 off-ramp interchange.
The BMW ran a red light and struck a blue 2005 Hyundai Elantra driven by Zachary Espinoza, 26, who was turning left onto Power Road after exiting the westbound Loop 202 off-ramp.
The BMW was traveling at a very high rate of speed when it hit the front end of the Hyundai. The BMW then hit the raised median causing it to roll a number of times. It traveled approximately 200 feet north of the intersection before coming to a stop. Four passengers were in the BMW at the time of the crash.
Cornett suffered significant injuries and was transported to Chandler Regional Hospital. Vials of THC oils were located at the scene. Impairment is suspected, but will be verified through blood testing.
Prior to the collision, the Gilbert Police Department received a call of a red BMW doing donuts in a park, causing damage to a splash pad and landscaping. Gilbert PD attempted to stop the BMW, but the driver fled. Gilbert PD cancelled their attempted stop of the BMW after witnessing the suspect run a red light leaving the neighborhood. The park is more than six (6) miles away from the accident scene.
This case is pending further investigation to determine speed and impairment. The identities of the passengers will not be released due to their ages.
The BMW driver, Brandon Cornett, is still at the hospital in serious condition.
Passenger #1 is hospitalized in very serious condition.
Passenger #2, 3 and 4 were released from the hospital.
Charges in this case are pending the conclusion of the investigation.