Four Vehicle Accident Leaves Alika Lyau-Goowin Dead, Josiah Gerona in Hospital

Avondale, Arizona—One person is dead and another is in the hospital with serious injuries following a four-vehicle pileup in Avondale early Wednesday morning. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office reports the accident occurred on MC-85 between El Mirage and Dysart Roads.  Seven people were involved.

The tragic events began when the driver of a disabled blue pickup by the side of the road called friends for help shortly before 1:00 a.m. on Wednesday.  Two of those friends, Alika Lyau-Goowin, age 18, and Josiah Gerona, age 18, both from Hawaii, were in the process of securing tow straps beneath the disabled pickup when a red Dodge Charger slammed into the back of the vehicles.  The driver has been identified as Marianna Villalobos Lopez, age 23.

Both men were transported to a nearby hospital where Mr. Goowin died shortly after being admitted.  Mr. Gerona’s condition has been upgraded to stable.  Both men were among a group of five close friends from Hawaii attending school at the Universal Technical Institute in Avondale.

Though the investigation is ongoing, speed appears to be a contributing factor.

We extend our condolences to the victim’s families and friends over this tragic loss. We wish quick and full recoveries for those who were injured.