GOLDEN VALLEY, AZ – A fatal two-vehicle crash in Golden Valley early Friday morning claimed the life of 61-year-old Marian Merk and resulted in multiple arrests, according to law enforcement officials. The incident occurred near the intersection of Shinarump Drive and Apache Road.
Authorities report that a Chevrolet pickup truck traveling eastbound on Shinarump Drive veered across the centerline for unknown reasons and slammed head-on into a Hyundai SUV traveling in the opposite direction. The force of the impact left the Hyundai severely damaged, and its driver, later identified as Marian Merk, was pinned inside the vehicle.
Emergency fire personnel responded quickly and worked to extricate Merk from the wreckage. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Merk was a resident of the area, and her death has sent shockwaves through the Golden Valley community.
In a disturbing turn of events, two men inside the Chevrolet pickup fled the scene on foot immediately following the collision, leaving behind the fatal wreckage. Law enforcement launched a search for the suspects, ultimately apprehending one of the men, identified as 30-year-old Brandon James Tosh of Kingman. Tosh, a passenger in the vehicle, was located shortly after the crash and booked into the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility on multiple outstanding warrants.
The driver of the pickup, identified as 29-year-old Maximiliano Chavez Jr., also of Kingman, was taken into custody the following day, on Saturday. Chavez now faces serious charges, including second-degree murder, for his alleged role in the deadly crash. Authorities have not yet released information about whether impairment or reckless driving played a role, but a full investigation is underway.
As investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses, the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about the crash to come forward. The stretch of road where the accident occurred was closed temporarily while the scene was processed and debris was cleared.
At Avian Law Group, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Marian Merk. The sudden loss of life caused by negligent or criminal behavior on the road is both devastating and unacceptable. Our firm is committed to helping families seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable. If you or someone you know has been affected by a tragic car accident, we are here to help you navigate your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.