The man accused of causing a tragic crash that resulted in the death of a family of three in Arizona in December 2022 has been indicted on three counts of manslaughter. Brian Alexander Torres-Perez, 22, was charged in connection with the crash that claimed the lives of Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb’s son, Cooper, his fiancée Caroline Patten, and their 11-month-old daughter.
The devastating incident occurred on December 16, 2022, when Patten was making a left turn at an intersection in Gilbert, Arizona, and Torres-Perez allegedly struck their vehicle with his own. Cooper and his daughter were pronounced dead at the scene, while Patten tragically passed away in the hospital nearly a week later.
Gilbert police cited excessive speed, alcohol, and drugs as contributing factors to the crash, with Torres-Perez reportedly driving 25 mph over the speed limit and testing positive for alcohol and THC in his system.
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This defendant’s reckless disregard for life wiped out an entire family. After an extensive review of the evidence, it’s time for Torres-Perez to be held responsible for his actions.”
Torres-Perez is currently in custody with a cash bond of $150,000. The community mourns the loss of Cooper, Caroline, and their young daughter, as justice begins to unfold in this heartbreaking case.
