1 Killed In Accident Near I-70, Driver Held
DENVER (CBS4) - A driver who Denver police said stole a car is facing vehicular homicide charges after he crashed into a pillar underneath Interstate 70 on Tuesday, killing his female passenger.
Joseph Ogara, 23, is being held for the woman's death and other felony charges. He was also hurt and is expected to be arrested when released from the hospital.
The accident happened near 46th Avenue and Race Street, police said. The passenger died at the hospital.
Police said at approximately 8 a.m. officers ran the plate on a vehicle near the Denver Coliseum. They found the car had been stolen Sunday night in Thornton and attempted to pull the car over.
"It sped off. We determined at this time of day it's not the best time to have a pursuit, so we didn't pursue," Sonny Jackson with Denver police said.
The driver crashed a quarter-mile from where officer tried to pull him over. Police said Orgara initially ran from the accident but returned.
"The male took off and ran. He realized the female didn't come so he went back to the car and was arrested and taken to the hospital," Jackson said.
Police say Orgara has a long rap sheet -- everything from shoplifting to possession of a controlled substance. He and the passenger knew each other, but the extent of their relationship is unknown.
