Yavapai County, Arizona – The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office has reported a troubling increase in fatal off-road accidents, with three people losing their lives in just two weeks.

“This serves as a reminder that driving under the influence is both illegal and dangerous, and seat belts can truly make a difference in saving lives, whether you’re on paved roads or off-road trails,” officials emphasized.

Cherry Creek accidents near Camp Verde

The first incident occurred on August 15 on Cherry Creek Road close to Camp Verde. The driver, alongside a solitary passenger, died at the scene. Details surrounding the crash have not been disclosed, but impairment is suspected to be involved.

Fatal rollover in Mayer

The Sheriff’s Office mentioned that the second crash took place in the Mayer area last Friday.

When authorities responded, they discovered a passenger trapped beneath the vehicle. Although deputies tried to perform life-saving procedures while waiting for paramedics, the 49-year-old passenger sadly passed away the next morning after being transported to Flagstaff Hospital.

The YCSO stated that a 35-year-old man from Surprise was arrested for DUI, and further issues arose when he provided conflicting accounts of who was driving at the time of the accident.

Rider fatalities in Sedona

The most recent crash happened Monday morning near Casner Mountain on Sedona’s west side while deputies were responding to an off-road rollover. Reports indicate that a 25-year-old man had been critically injured, ultimately dying at the scene when deputies arrived.

Investigators suspect that while attempting to navigate a downhill curve in wet conditions, the driver veered into a ditch, ejecting the passenger from the UTV, who was not wearing a seatbelt.

Increased patrols

In light of this spike in accidents, authorities in northern Arizona are ramping up patrols, urging the public to remain vigilant.

“In response to reckless driving leading to serious injuries and fatalities on dirt roads, YCSO has enhanced patrols in popular off-road spots. We are committed to these intensified enforcement efforts, utilizing new patrol UTVs and expanded forest patrols,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Even with increased patrols, the YCSO Vehicle Crime Force continues to investigate many serious injury or fatal accidents occurring on both paved and unpaved roads.”