Alcohol may have been a contributing factor to a head-on vehicle accident on Highway 50 early Monday morning that killed a 19-year-old woman, the Nevada Highway Patrol reports this morning.
Samantha Sibis of Fallon was driving her silver 1983 Volvo station wagon eastbound on the four-lane highway just east of McLean Road shortly after 5:3.0. am when it was struck by a blue 2007 Chevrolet Silverado pickup driven by 21-year-old Justin E. Speed, also from Fallon.
Although the crash investigation is continuing, alcohol appears to be the primary contributing factor in the accident, said NHP Trooper Chuck Allen.
Justin Speed was driving westbound on Highway 50 and crossed over the center turn lane and entered the eastbound lanes, striking the left front of the Volvo with the front of his pickup. Both vehicles remained on their wheels and were blocking both eastbound travel lanes. Eastbound traffic was diverted onto McLean Road until the scene was cleared.
Sibis died at the crash scene from her injuries while Mr. Speed was transported for his injuries to Banner Churchill Community Hospital in Fallon before being transferred to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. He is currently listed in good condition at the hospital this morning.
The crash is being investigated by Trooper Robert Haigney of the Major Accident Investigation Team (M.A.I.T.). Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who can provide additional information is encouraged to call Trooper Haigney at (775) 689-4682 regarding case # NHP-1011080136.