Driver Arrested After Two Killed in Avoca Motorcycle Crash
AVOCA, Ark. — A motorcycle crash on U.S. Highway 62 resulted in the deaths of two individuals Thursday afternoon, leading to the arrest of the SUV driver.
Around 12:15 p.m. on March 30, 2026, 45-year-old Jose Gamez of Pea Ridge was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe when he failed to yield to oncoming traffic and collided with a motorcycle, according to ARKANSAS STATE POLICE. The crash claimed the lives of Michael Cordes, 70, and Freda Cordes, 67, both residents of Rogers.
Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Gamez was not injured and was taken into custody, facing charges of two counts of negligent homicide and driving while intoxicated. Authorities indicated that Gamez is also being held at the request of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement due to an active felony warrant from Los Angeles County, California.
Emergency responders from local agencies were on the scene, and the incident remains under investigation by authorities.