An Arizona resident received a 22-year prison sentence last week after a harrowing incident where he, while intoxicated, collided with a motorcyclist. The impact resulted in the motorcyclist and bike being dragged almost a mile before the driver realized what had happened.
According to a statement from the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, the intense friction from the extended dragging caused the motorcycle to ignite as it skidded along the road.
The tragic accident, which occurred on October 5, 2024, claimed the life of 61-year-old Darrel Evans.
Prosecutors revealed that 40-year-old Joel Stephan Goble had been consuming alcohol at various locations before he recklessly drove his truck at speeds exceeding 100 mph on US Highway 60, eventually crashing into Evans’ motorcycle from behind.
Surveillance footage captured Goble exiting his vehicle approximately 4,000 feet from where the initial crash occurred. He was seen removing the burning motorcycle and rider from the truck’s grill, after which he attempted to flee. However, troopers, having witnessed the disturbing scene, intercepted him before he could escape.
Several hours post-incident, tests showed Goble’s blood alcohol content was .132, significantly over Arizona’s legal limit of 0.08.
“This case highlights the importance of holding repeat DUI offenders accountable,” prosecutor Stephen Bridger said. “This defendant had multiple prior DUI convictions, and even had warrants for his arrest from yet another DUI just prior to this collision.”
County Prosecutor Brad Miller said the collision “was not an accident.”
“This was a preventable tragedy fueled by reckless choices and repeated disregard for the law,” he said.
Goble was convicted in September and sentenced last week to 22 years in prison for second degree murder and 7 years probation for leaving the scene of a fatal collision.
