Gerald John, Ray Jim Killed in Police Chase Crash on 40 Freeway [Gallup, NM]

Gerald John, Ray Jim Die in Police Pursuit Collision on 40 Freeway Near Route US 66

 
GALLUP, NM (July 3, 2020) — Two men died on June 5 following a police pursuit crash on the 40 Freeway near Route US 66.
 
According to New Mexico State Police, the pursuit unfolded just before midnight. Two Gallup police officers tried stopping two men accused of brandishing a weapon, say reports.
 
However, as the officers tried to contact these two suspects in the parking lot of Redwood Lodge motel, the suspects took off in a white Dodge pickup truck, leaving officers to chase after them.
 
A dashcam video documented the officers following the truck westbound on Route US 66 toward the 40 Freeway. The video shows the vehicle traveling at speeds of 80 mph. Furthermore, at several points during the chase, the Dodge traveled onto the wrong side of the road and with a flat tire.
 
One of the men chucked a tire, a shovel, cinder blocks, a gas canister and a couple of bicycles at the officers who were trailing behind the suspects.
 
Reports noted that the sergeants fired a shotgun at the suspects; however, it’s unclear whether either suspect sustained injuries from that gunshot.
 
According to State Police, the pursuit came to an end when the Dodge crashed head-on into a semi-truck and ejected 25-year-old Gerald John, of Brimhall, and his 21-year-old passenger, Ray Lee Jim, of Wingate, from the vehicle. The semi-truck driver evaded harm, fortunately.

In light of this devastating news, we would like to express our condolences to the bereaved families and friends of Gerald John and Ray Lee Jim.

Searching high and low for a wrongful death lawyer who will fight tooth and nail for you? Consider Steve Mehr during a time like this. Call (800) 625-5052 for a free consultation. You can request a police report of the accident beforehand.