Shandine John Arrested in Tragic Crash on Hawkins Street

Motorcyclist Killed in Tragic Motorcycle Crash in Cortez

Cortez, CO (March 28, 2026) — A male motorcyclist died, and 33-year-old Shandine John has been arrested after a fatal crash on Hawkins Street in Cortez.

Reports say that John faces multiple felony charges, including vehicular homicide and DUI, following the collision at Hawkins Street and East Main Street.

Authorities say the crash happened shortly after a Report Every Drunk Driver Immediately (REDDI) alert was filed regarding a black Dodge Ram 1500. Witnesses at a nearby Dairy Queen reported that the truck’s occupants appeared intoxicated before leaving the restaurant.

Emergency responders found a male motorcyclist on the ground with CPR already in progress. The victim’s identity has not been released while authorities notify his extended family. John was taken into custody and held at the Montezuma County Jail on a $200,000 bond. She also faces a prior DUI probation revocation case.

Investigators continue to process the scene, and a return filing for the charges related to the fatal crash is scheduled for April 7.

Sweet Lawyers extends sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim. Losing someone in a sudden, preventable crash is devastating, and our thoughts are with those grieving this tragic loss.

The Painful Aftermath of Losing a Loved One in a Traffic Crash

The loss of a loved one in a fatal traffic accident is a devastating experience for families. In addition to the emotional trauma, the bereaved are often left facing unforeseen financial burdens. When this happens, filing a wrongful death claim can provide vital support, both legally and financially. It is important to understand that a wrongful death claim holds the responsible party accountable and allows the family of the deceased to seek compensation for their loss.

One of the primary reasons to pursue a wrongful death claim following a deadly traffic accident is to recover financial losses, which may include funeral expenses, medical costs for the deceased’s final treatment, and lost wages. If the deceased was the primary earner in the family, the surviving loved ones may struggle to cover day-to-day expenses without the deceased’s income. Compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit can help ease the financial strain caused by this loss.

Additionally, a wrongful death claim serves as a way to hold negligent parties responsible. Whether the crash was caused by a drunk driver, distracted driving, or a defective vehicle, the at-fault party should be held accountable for their actions. The legal process ensures that justice is pursued and can also raise awareness about dangerous behaviors that may have contributed to the collision and prevent similar accidents from happening.

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer a sense of closure and justice to grieving families. Yes, no financial compensation can replace the lost life of a loved one, but it can provide families with a sense of resolution, knowing that the responsible party has been held liable for their actions.

Sweet Lawyers has more than four decades of expertise in this field. That is why it is best to consult with our tenured attorneys to see your best legal options.

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