PAULDEN - The following is a press release from the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office:

On September 27, 2008, at approximately 3:45 P.M., Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported collision on Sweet Valley Road in Paulden. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered that 16-year-old Paulden resident Austin Justin collided with a motorcycle rider and passenger while driving his father’s truck. The collision resulted in injuries to both passengers on the motorcycle, which included a 14-year-old unlicensed driver and his 13-year-old passenger. The motorcycle driver had been transported to Yavapai Regional Medical Center by ambulance while the passenger was airlifted to a Phoenix hospital due to apparent internal injuries.

Preliminary results of the investigation indicate that Justin failed to negotiate a curve on Sweet Valley Road, drove left of center, and struck the motorcycle coming towards him. Justin had apparently driven his father’s truck without permission. Justin was cited at the scene for several violations including Driving Unlicensed, Excessive Speed, and Failure to Control a Vehicle.

Further details regarding this accident are still pending completion of the investigation and final report. Injury information will be updated when available.