Phoenix, AZ – Dakota Behan Charged in Death of Teen in Auto Wreck
Phoenix, AZ (September 20, 2019) – Dakota Austin Behan, 19, has been charged for his role in a fatal multi-vehicle wreck last September.
The accident occurred on September 12, 2018, near 32nd Street and Union Hills Drive around 7:30 p.m. Behan, the driver of a Kia sedan, was speeding when he ran a red light and collided with a Ford pickup truck. The force of that collision caused Behan to hit a second Ford F-150 as that driver was waiting to turn at the intersection. The three teenagers in the Kia were transported to an area hospital by Phoenix EMTs in critical condition.
One of the passengers, a 17-year-old girl, later died from her injuries.
Behan, aged 18 at the time, was hospitalized in critical condition, and another 16-year-old boy inside the car suffered from minor injuries. Both pickup truck drivers were also treated for minor injuries.
A Maricopa County Grand Jury issued a warrant for Behan’s arrest on charges of endangerment and manslaughter.
We would like to offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased victim at this time.
Fatal Crashes in Arizona
Hundreds of wrecks occur each day on Arizona roads, ranging from minor fender benders to accidents with serious injuries or fatalities. Nearly 130,000 crashes occurred across the state last year, with almost 11,000 involving more than two drivers and countless injuries and deaths, according to data released by the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Victims’ families are left to pick up the pieces after a fatal accident. When these devastating incidents occur, families must deal with insurance companies and financial difficulties, all while grieving their loved one’s death. However, those affected can seek help from a lawyer to protect their legal rights and seek compensation from a wrongful death suit.
ELG Law’s auto accident attorneys have years of experience fighting for victims and their families after they’ve suffered from a crash caused by the negligent actions of other drivers. Contact our accident attorneys today at (623) 562-3838 to schedule your free consultation.
Note: As a result of the secondary sources that were used to complete this post, the information included within has not been independently verified by our own staff and may include misinformation. If you read something that, to your knowledge, is incorrect, please contact us as soon as possible and we will correct the inaccuracy.
Disclaimer: As members of the local Phoenix and broader Arizona community, we hope everyone in our community is safe and protected. We cover the events included in this blog as a way to offer support to the victims in similar circumstances and to provide relief during these difficult times. However, this information should not be misconstrued as legal advice, and you should speak with a trained legal professional for more information regarding your situation.
