NHP: Suspected DUI crash on Highway 50 near Fallon results in life threatening injuries
Two people were hospitalized with one suffering life threatening injuries following an early Christmas morning vehicle crash on Highway 50 west of Fallon that is being investigated as DUI related, a Nevada Highway Patrol trooper said.
On Dec. 25, 2016 at approximately 1:15 a.m., NHP troopers were dispatched to the injury crash US50 Alternate, west of Fallon near Leeteville Junction. The preliminary investigation indicates a silver Chevy Sonic, being driven by Vincent Spottedcalf, 23, of Fallon, at a high rate of speed westbound on US50 Alternate in the right travel lane, said NHP Trooper Dan Gordon.
A blue 2008 Dodge Avenger, being driven by Meriah Tipton, 19, along with Malissa Vogel, 20, who was in the right front passenger seat, was also traveling in the right travel lane, ahead of the Sonic. The Sonic struck the rear of the blue Dodge Avenger causing the Avenger to travel off the roadway and overturn, ejecting Vogel, who is believed to be not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision, said Gordon.
Signs of alcohol use from Spottedcalf were observed by troopers at the scene and he was suspected of driving while impaired, said Gordon. He was placed under arrest and booked at the Churchill County jail on suspicion of DUI with an accident causing substantial bodily harm/death, along with other misdemeanor charges.
Vogel was transported to Renown by Care Flight were she remains in critical condition. Tipton was taken to Banner Hospital in Fallon and treated for moderate injuries.
If you have any information regarding this crash or was witness to this incident, please contact Trooper Doug Hildebrand of the Nevada Highway Patrol (M.I.R.T.) at 775-688-2500 or email dhildebrand@dps.state .nv.us and refer to case #161202584.