Man charged in wreck that killed Gardnerville woman

A Douglas County man remained in jail Wednesday, charged in a fatal collision on Tuesday night that claimed the life of a Gardnerville woman.

Michael Cordero Perez, 32, of Bavarian Drive off Jacks Valley Road, is being held on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs causing death. Perez will appear in court Friday. He is being held on $100,000 cash only bail as set by a judge Wednesday.

According to Trooper Chuck Allen, Perez was westbound four miles south of Highway 395 on Jacks Valley Road when he crossed the double-yellow line several times.

The Jeep crashed head-on into a eastbound Ford sedan driven by Robin Maroney, 42, of Gardnerville.

Perez was taken to Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center by ground ambulance and later to Washoe Medical Center for a broken nose and a cut on the back of his head. Maroney had to be extricated from her vehicle and flown to Washoe Medical Center for life-threatening injuries. She died late Wednesday night at Washoe Medical Center.

"Further investigation revealed that Perez was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the time of the accident, and upon his release from the hospital was taken to the Douglas County jail," Allen said.

Investigators would like anyone with any additional information about the accident to call the Department of Public Safety Communications Center at 688-2500, ext. 2.

"We want to remind motorists how critical it is to designate a driver before indulging in alcoholic beverages. As a result of these crashes, lives are not only lost, but families are emotionally scarred forever. During this holiday season, especially with the added parties and celebrations, don't drink and drive and always wear a seat belt," Allen said.

"It only takes one extra drink to change your life."

n Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.