By Andrew Soucie
SPD Patrol Sergeant
On October 11, 2024, at approximately 11:34 PM, Scottsbluff Police Officers responded to the intersection of Avenue I and Highway 26 following reports of an injury accident.
Upon investigation, it was determined that a 2005 white Chevy Trailblazer, driven by 41-year-old Scottsbluff resident Henry Gonzalez, was traveling northbound on Avenue I when it collided with a 2015 dark blue Lincoln MKC. The Lincoln, driven by 37-year-old Scottsbluff resident Miguel Chavez, had been headed south bound on Ave I and began negotiating an eastbound turn from Avenue I and attempting to proceed eastbound onto Highway 26.
The collision occurred within the intersection. Further investigation revealed that Gonzalez was driving under the influence of alcohol. He was subsequently arrested for DUI, driving under suspension, possession of open alcohol containers, and failure to provide proof of insurance. Additionally, it was discovered that Gonzalez had an active arrest warrant for Domestic Assault, for which he was also taken into custody.
One driver sustained minor injuries; however, neither required emergency transport from the scene. Both vehicles sustained disabling damage and were towed from the location. The intersection was closed for approximately 50 minutes while the investigation was conducted and roadway cleared.
In addition to the Scottsbluff Police Department, the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Fire Department, and Regional West EMS also responded to the incident and assisted. Alcohol is being considered as a contributing factor to the collision, and the investigation is ongoing, pending review of surveillance footage, for any contributing traffic violations.