Avoca, AR (March 30, 2026) – A tragic two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 62 in Avoca claimed the lives of two motorcyclists on Thursday afternoon, March 26, and led to the arrest of the other driver involved.
According to the Arkansas State Police, the collision occurred around 12:15 p.m. when a Chevrolet Tahoe traveling in the area failed to yield to oncoming traffic and struck a motorcycle.
Authorities identified the victims as 70-year-old Michael Cordes and 67-year-old Freda Cordes, both of Rogers. They were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries.
The driver of the Tahoe, identified as 45-year-old Jose Gamez of Pea Ridge, was not injured in the crash. Troopers took him into custody following the incident.
Officials say Gamez was transported to the Benton County Detention Center, where he faces charges including two counts of negligent homicide and driving while intoxicated. Authorities also confirmed he is being held in connection with an active felony warrant issued out of Los Angeles County, California.
The crash remains under investigation as officials continue to review the circumstances leading up to the collision.
Our sincere condolences go out to the victims’ families and loved ones during this difficult time.
How Failure to Yield Can Lead to Deadly Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle crashes involving failure to yield are often severe due to the vulnerability of riders. When a driver fails to properly judge oncoming traffic or disregards right-of-way rules, motorcycles can be especially difficult to see, increasing the risk of a collision.
Unlike occupants in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have minimal protection, making them more likely to suffer fatal injuries in high-impact crashes. Intersections and highway crossings are common locations for these incidents, where split-second decisions can have life-altering consequences.
