On 9-14-2011 just after 3:00 p.m., PCSO deputies responded to the scene of a two vehicle collision along Jimmie Kerr Blvd, just west of the Peart Rd. intersection near Casa Grande.
 
Rafael Servellon Vanega, 56 of Eloy, was traveling East on Jimmie Kerr Blvd. when he lost control of his 2005 Crown Victoria and swerved into oncoming traffic, striking a 2006 Chevrolet ¾ ton company pickup truck driven by Elvin Crewell, 41 of Florence.
 
Crewell and a passenger did not sustain life threatening injuries.
 
Unconscious and not breathing, Vanega was trapped inside his vehicle and required extrication. After he was removed from his vehicle, Vanega was transported by ground to Casa Grande Regional Hospital.
 
Attempts to restore Vanega’s vitals were unsuccessful and he was pronounced deceased at 4:08 p.m.
 
Investigators estimate Vanega’s speed at the time of the collision to be approximate 70 mph. Evidence at the scene also indicates Vanega was driving under the influence of alcohol.
 
Deputies also learned Vanega was operating his vehicle under a suspended license from a previous DUI conviction.
 
This is the second collision in less than two weeks near the same intersection where a suspected impaired driver caused a fatal collision; the previous involved a single vehicle collision on 9-10-11 in which a passenger was killed.
 
Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, “This is a sad reminder of what can happen when an impaired driver chooses to get behind the wheel and puts everyone’s life, including their own, in danger. It’s unfortunate that Mr. Vanega did not learn from his previous DUI conviction, but I hope others will use this example and choose not to drive while impaired.”