Yavapai County law enforcement is stepping up patrols after a series of deadly off-road crashes. The Sheriff’s Office said three people have died in separate off-road accidents throughout Yavapai County in the past two weeks.
They include a 25-year-old passenger of a utility terrain vehicle that rolled over in Sedona; a 49-year-old passenger of a UTV that rolled down a ravine whose driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI; and the driver of a truck that rolled down a 20-foot embankment. Police believe impairment also played a factor in that crash.
Paul Wick is a spokesman for the Sheriff’s Office. He said the department acquired its own UTVs and has boosted enforcement in popular off-roading spots.
"They just kind of patrol and make sure everybody’s not going crazy, heavy drinking and riding, driving," he said.
The department has also increased its forest patrol units.
