Cortez Woman Charged in Fatal Motorcycle Crash
Cortez Police arrested Shandine H. John, 33, following a fatal vehicle-versus-motorcycle crash at Hawkins Street and East Main Street on Tuesday afternoon.
The collision occurred around 4 p.m., leaving a male motorcyclist deceased. His identity has not been released pending family notification. Bystanders initiated CPR before emergency services arrived on the scene, and the Cortez Police Department responded to several 911 calls regarding the incident.
Authorities reported significant damage to both the black Dodge Ram 1500 and the motorcycle, which was found on its side. A REDDI report had been submitted just before the crash, indicating a possible intoxicated driver. Witnesses stated occupants of the truck appeared impaired after leaving a nearby Dairy Queen.
John initially provided conflicting statements about her involvement but later admitted to being the driver. She disclosed consuming “three, no, four beers” prior to the crash, according to the arrest affidavit. A breath test at the Cortez Police Department revealed her blood alcohol content was 0.285.
John is charged with vehicular homicide, DUI, careless driving causing death, driving with a BAC of 0.08% or more, and driving while her license was revoked. She has a prior DUI charge from a March 2025 arrest. Bond is set at $200,000 cash or surety, with her initial court appearance scheduled for April 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Montezuma Combined Courts.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.