A semi-truck driver involved in a devastating six-vehicle crash in Arizona earlier this year, which claimed the lives of five individuals, has been charged with multiple felonies. According to officials, the driver, Danny Tiner, was actively using the TikTok app on his phone just moments before the accident occurred. The incident report reveals that Tiner was distracted by a message on his electronic work tablet, causing him to collide with multiple vehicles on Interstate 10. The tragic crash took place in an area where traffic was already halted due to a previous accident involving commercial trucks.
On January 12, at approximately 6 a.m., Tiner, traveling eastbound on Interstate 10, failed to stop his vehicle in time to avoid a collision. The impact resulted in two passenger vehicles being wedged between the semi-trucks, leading to a fiery explosion. The fire quickly spread to the commercial truck tractors and trailers involved. The Arizona Department of Public Safety reported that five individuals lost their lives in the accident: Ryan Gooding, Andrew Standifird, Jerardo Vazquez, Willis Thompson, and Gilberto Franco.
Following a thorough investigation, the Department of Public Safety discovered that Tiner had been speeding in the posted 55-mph construction zone. Additionally, it was revealed that he was actively using the TikTok application on his cell phone at the time of the collision. Tiner’s cell phone was handed over to officials, who conducted a forensic examination, confirming his distraction. As a result, Tiner now faces ten felony charges, including five counts of manslaughter, four counts of endangerment, and one count of tampering with physical evidence.
To combat the rising issue of distracted driving, many states have implemented laws and campaigns to raise awareness. These initiatives aim to educate drivers about the risks associated with distractions such as cell phone use, texting, and other activities that divert attention from the road.