Las Vegas, NV – A Las Vegas woman will serve a minimum of two years in prison after admitting to causing a head-on collision that killed a young college student.

Tragedy on U.S. 95

Taylor Madison, the driver, was traveling southbound on U.S. 95 towards Searchlight on September 26, 2022, when she crossed the center line and struck the vehicle of 18-year-old Katarina “Kat” Johnson head-on. Johnson, a freshman at UNLV and originally from Tennessee, was northbound on her way home after a planned bonfire gathering that was ultimately cancelled.

Investigation Reveals Impairment

Nevada State Police troopers determined Madison was impaired at the time of the crash. She reportedly told investigators she believed she had been drugged. However, troopers also noted a strong odor of alcohol on her person and discovered a white powdery substance and marijuana within her car.

Plea Deal Reached

Madison has agreed to plead guilty to one count of DUI resulting in death. This plea deal allows the judge sentencing flexibility, with a range of two to twenty years in prison.

Deadly Stretch of Highway

As previously reported, the section of U.S. 95 where the crash occurred is not patrolled by law enforcement on a 24/7 basis. While the crash happened within Nevada State Police jurisdiction, records show Boulder City police arrived first on the scene, followed by the city’s fire department within minutes. The first state trooper arrived nearly 45 minutes after the collision.

Blood Alcohol Level Unknown

The exact blood alcohol level of Madison at the time of the crash is not specified in court documents. Additionally, the documents reveal that Madison stated she was driving home, but troopers noted she was travelling in the opposite direction on U.S. 95 from her listed address.

A Life Lost

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can have. The loss of Katarina Johnson, a young woman with her whole life ahead of her, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving.

Credits: 8 News Now