An Arizona man, heavily intoxicated at the time, caused a tragic accident when he crashed into a motorcyclist, dragging the rider for nearly a mile and igniting the motorcycle in the process.

Joel Stephan Goble, aged 40, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison, followed by seven years of probation. He was convicted of second-degree murder and fleeing the scene of a fatal accident that claimed the life of 61-year-old Darrell Evans.

According to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, the incident occurred on October 5, 2024. Goble had spent several hours drinking at various venues before getting behind the wheel of his truck. Speeding at over 100 mph on US 60 in Apache Junction, he collided directly with Evans’ motorcycle, resulting in the bike and rider being lodged into the truck’s grill.

Goble continued to drive, dragging the motorcycle approximately 4,000 feet, equivalent to about three-quarters of a mile. The friction between the motorcycle and the pavement caused the bike to ignite. Goble eventually exited the highway at Idaho Road, stopped to dislodge the motorcycle from his truck, and then drove away, leaving Evans severely injured.

Police officers in the area observed Goble’s escape and managed to stop him. His blood-alcohol content was recorded at 0.132, several hours after the crash had occurred. Sadly, Evans succumbed to his injuries.

Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller pointed out that Goble had a history of DUI convictions and was also wanted for an outstanding warrant related to another DUI incident.

“This was not an accident — this was a preventable tragedy fueled by reckless choices and repeated disregard for the law,” said Miller. “The defendant’s history of impaired driving, combined with his callous decision to flee while a man lay dying on the roadway, shows the very worst kind of danger to our community. The conviction delivers justice for the victim and his loved ones, and it sends a clear message: Pinal County will not tolerate repeat offenders who choose to endanger innocent lives.”

Evans’ obituary said he lived in the Grand Canyon State since he was 6 years old and stayed because he loved it so much.

“Darrell was a free spirit who had a passion for music, strumming his guitar, and enjoying the freedom of riding motorcycles,” the obituary said.