Durham Teen Charged in Deadly Crash While Fleeing Deputies Ordered Held on $1.5M Bond
DURHAM, N.C. — An 18-year-old Durham man is behind bars on a $1.5 million bond after authorities say he caused a deadly crash while fleeing from deputies during a suspected street race last week.
Teen Suspect Identified as Kevin Aljeandro Ruiz-Gomez
According to the Durham County Sheriff’s Office, Kevin Aljeandro Ruiz-Gomez was arrested Friday in connection with a high-speed crash that occurred Thursday night near the intersection of N.C. Highway 55 and Riddle Road.
Deputies said Ruiz-Gomez was fleeing law enforcement after being spotted participating in a street race. While attempting to escape, he allegedly ran a red light and slammed into another vehicle driven by 36-year-old Jamal D. Parker, also of Durham.
Parker was pronounced dead at the scene, while a passenger in his vehicle sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
Facing Multiple Felony Charges
Court records show Ruiz-Gomez faces a long list of charges, including:
- Assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury
- Flee to elude arrest with a motor vehicle
- Misdemeanor death by vehicle
- Speed competition
- Reckless driving with wanton disregard
- Driving while license revoked (not for impairment)
- Failure to stop for a red light
Authorities say Ruiz-Gomez’s actions displayed “wanton disregard for human life,” leading to one of several fatal crashes linked to illegal racing in Durham County this year.
Judge Sets $1.5 Million Bond
At his first court appearance Monday morning, a Durham County judge ordered Ruiz-Gomez held on a $1.5 million secured bond, citing the severity of the charges and public safety concerns.
Records show he remains in custody at the Durham County Detention Facility and is scheduled to appear in court again on October 27.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The deadly incident has renewed concerns among residents about the rise of street racing and reckless driving in Durham’s busy corridors. Law enforcement agencies say they will continue increased patrols and speed enforcement throughout the fall.
The investigation remains active, and officials have not said whether additional arrests are expected.
Have you witnessed dangerous street racing in your area? Share your experiences and road safety ideas at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
