Truck Driver Collides with Motorcyclists, Resulting in Fatal Crash
LAV VEGAS (KLAS) — Footage obtained by the 8 News Now Investigators shows a truck driver traveling on the wrong side of the road for almost 30 seconds before crashing into a group of motorcyclists, leading to the deaths of three individuals. Initially, state police suspected impairment, but current findings indicate that wasn’t the case.
Driver’s License Issues
Claude Rafiki, 29, held a valid commercial driver’s license from Michigan at the time of the incident on March 23. However, his medical certification was set to expire on March 24—just a day after the crash. Officials from the Michigan Secretary of State’s office confirmed that drivers are mandated to renew their medical clearance before their certification lapses, which Rafiki failed to do. As a result, his license was downgraded and became invalid as of March 24.
Charges Filed
Rafiki faces three counts of reckless driving resulting in death following the crash on State Route 163 near Laughlin. Witnesses reported that Rafiki crossed the centerline of the highway and collided with two motorcycles, killing their drivers and a passenger.
Investigation and Evidence
Initially arrested on DUI charges, Rafiki was later found not to have any evidence of impairment. The crash tragically took the lives of Owen Hart, 22; Athena Faye Taylor, 21; and Jeremy Gebo, 44, all from St. George, Utah, who were riding from St. George to Laughlin at the time.
Video Evidence and Testimonies
Prosecutors introduced dashcam footage from Rafiki’s truck as part of the evidence for the case, with the recording synced to the truck’s engine. The video proved that Rafiki drove in the No. 1 travel lane, which is against regulations for semi-trucks, for approximately 25 seconds before the crash.
Witness Accounts
Cory Beard, who led the group of motorcyclists, narrowly avoided being hit and described the moment as shocking and confusing. He recounted, “We came around a corner and saw a semi in our lane—totally confusing,” explaining how he had to quickly maneuver left into oncoming traffic to avoid the truck.
Current Status and Future Proceedings
Rafiki explained to police that he was pushed off course by the “wind,” insisting he was not impaired and that he took medication for seizures. Though a trooper noted the strong winds at the scene, they also reported that there were no signs of alcohol or drugs in the truck. Rafiki was being held on $500,000 bail as of Tuesday, with a trial scheduled for June.
