Repeat Drunk Driver Cause of Tragic Accident
AUSTIN, TX – The lives of an entire family were forever changed on Wednesday, when a man made the decision to drink and drive. Not for the first time, but for the third…that police are aware of.
John Canche Alvarado has been convicted of drunk driving twice before. Once in 2008 when he was sentenced to 20 days in jail for his first offense. Again in 2009 which required only the payment of a fine. The third time Alvarado was caught was Wednesday, after he caused an accident that left two children dead.
Alvarado is no stranger to the court system. He not only has previous DWIs on his record, but driving with an invalid license and, just months ago, assault causing bodily injury. As of last week, Alvarado can add two counts of intoxication manslaughter to his record.
The man, aged 45, was driving his truck on U.S. 183 behind another vehicle. That vehicle was struck from behind by Alvarado as it attempted to turn left onto Sarasota Springs Drive. The accident occurred at approximately 8:45 p.m.
Kirstin Draper, 10-years old, and her brother Koby Draper, 15-years old, were pronounced dead on scene. According to a police report, the siblings’ mother, a 13-year old and 16-year old were also in the vehicle at the time. All three were injured and transported to a local hospital where they were listed in critical condition.
The MADD chapter in Austin says that there is a feeling of sadness throughout their office. The accident is especially tragic as Alvarado has been convicted of the crime twice before.
“It’s really gloomy. As you know a loss of life is very difficult on anybody, especially someone so young,” said MADD spokesperson Raul Vasquez.
Alvarado’s first DWI arrest occurred in Cedar Park, where he struck a curb with enough force to blow out both of the tires on the passenger side of his vehicle. His second occurred when he failed to use his turn signal.
Alvarado remains in jail on a $2 million bond. It is unclear if Alvarado will face additional charges. What is certain is that a family has been dramatically and permanently altered due to one man’s horrible decision.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident, please contact our compassionate attorneys as soon as possible. We work tirelessly for our clients, and we want to help you and your family during this difficult time. Please call us for a free initial consultation.