UPDATE: A 19-year-old driver has been charged with killing three college students in a horrific crash that unfolded Thursday night in Tucson, Arizona. Louis John Artal allegedly slammed his speeding $60,000 Porsche Boxster into a marked crosswalk at the University of Arizona around 11 PM, leaving two students dead at the scene and a third succumbing to injuries days later.
The victims, Sophia Akimi Troetel, 21, and her boyfriend Josiah Patrick Santos, 22, were struck while walking in the crosswalk. Both were pronounced dead on-site. A third student, Katya Rosaura Castillo Mendoza, 21, was critically injured and died on November 4, after being taken off life support.
Witnesses report that Artal was speeding significantly over the 30 mph limit before the crash. Following the incident, he fled the scene but turned himself into police early Friday morning. Authorities confirmed he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash. Artal has since been charged with three counts of second-degree murder and one count of leaving the scene of an accident involving death.
During his first court appearance, held virtually, a judge set his bail at $250,000. The state argued that Artal’s limited ties to the area warrant a high bail, while his attorney noted that he is currently a student at the University of Arizona.
The emotional fallout from the tragedy is profound. Troetel’s mother, Shannon, addressed the court, stating, “My daughter was callously killed last night. She was a thriving senior of the highest academic standing.” She stressed the need for strict measures against Artal, expressing fear that he could be a flight risk.
Meanwhile, Mendoza’s sister, Allison Salinas, spoke from the ICU where Katya was being treated, saying, “We are completely broken. Losing her has torn our family apart.” She urged the court to acknowledge the gravity of the loss caused by Artal’s actions.
Santos’ mother, Mathia, delivered a heartfelt message to Artal, saying, “I cannot believe you drove away and left them there!” She described her son and Troetel as “full of life, love, and promise,” emphasizing their shared dreams for the future.
The University of Arizona has expressed condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, offering support resources to the campus community. A GoFundMe page set up by Santos’ family has raised over $26,000 to assist during this difficult time.
Student Body President Adriana Grijalva confirmed that plans are underway to honor the lives lost in this devastating crash. The university community stands united in grief, mourning the loss of bright futures in the wake of this senseless act.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. As the community processes the impact of this event, the focus now shifts to supporting the families of the victims and holding those responsible accountable.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
