April 9, 2010 1:31 AM PDT
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2010/04/07/20100407bond-set-truck-driver-motorcycle-crash-phoenix-abrk.html Bond for driver in fatal motorcycle crash set at $1 million by Jessica Testa - Apr. 7, 2010 09:45 AM The Arizona Republic A million-dollar bond has been set for the man who is suspected of losing control of his 24,000-pound dump truck on March 25 while under the influence of methamphetamine, slamming into 10 motorcycles and three vehicles, killing four and sending five to the hospital.
The motorcyclists and vehicles were stopped at a red light at 27th Drive and Carefree Highway when Jakscht, 46, plowed into them.
Court documents released Wednesday indicate Michael Jakscht's methamphetamine use might not have been an isolated incident. Police suspect Jakscht was an addict, according to the documents. At the scene, Jakscht had a high pulse rate and dilated pupils. He couldn't remain balanced and performed poorly on the walk and turn test.
Police also believed Jakscht would flee if he was released. The documents noted Jakscht is unmarried, has changed his physical characteristics and does not have a job or own a home locally.
There was no evidence Jakscht attempted to brake before slamming into the drivers and motorcyclists, according to the documents. Three of the six brakes on the truck were also out of adjustment.
Blue Sky Sanitation, the company whose truck Jakscht was driving, could not be reached for comment.
Jakscht could face four counts of manslaughter, five counts of aggravated assault and seven counts of endangerment.