Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement following a fatal crash in Avoca Arkansas that claimed the lives of a Benton County couple.
According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash happened around 12:15 p.m. on March 26, 2026, on U.S. Highway 62. Troopers say a Chevrolet Tahoe failed to yield to oncoming traffic and struck a motorcycle.
The collision resulted in the deaths of 70-year-old Michael Cordes and 67-year-old Freda Cordes of Rogers Arkansas. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities identified the driver of the Tahoe as 45-year-old Jose Gamez of Pea Ridge Arkansas. He was not injured in the crash and was arrested at the scene.
Troopers conducted a field sobriety test and blood draw, which indicated Gamez was driving under the influence. He was transported to the Benton County Detention Center and charged with 2 counts of negligent homicide and driving while intoxicated.
Officials say Gamez is also being held at the request of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and was found to have an active nationwide felony warrant out of Los Angeles County California.
In her statement, Governor Sanders referenced the case while addressing public safety concerns and efforts to strengthen enforcement against violent offenders.
Arkansas State Police Director Colonel Mike Hagar said troopers acted quickly to apprehend a dangerous individual and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting communities across Arkansas.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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