Driver of fatal Fernley crash charged with DUI, possession of meth

The Nevada Highway Patrol released details today of a three-vehicle crash that killed one person and injured another on Wednesday.

The driver of the vehicle who allegedly caused the crash, Stephen Murray, 54, of Alta, Calif., was booked at the Lyon County Jail in Yerington on the listed charges: DUI drugs with death, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, driving left of center. At this time, added the NHP, impairment is suspected, and the results of a legal blood draw are pending.

The Wednesday morning crash south of Fernley near Cottonwood Lane on U.S. Highway 50 Alternate reveals a 2001 black C-Class Mercedes Benz was traveling northbound on the highway when the vehicle crossed over the center yellow lines and veered left of center (no passing zone). The left front of the Mercedes struck the left front of a green Honda Civic driven by Stephen Johnson, 25, of Silver Springs. Johnson was traveling southbound and approaching the Mercedes Benz when the crash occurred.

A white Chrysler PT Cruiser driven by Michaela Cresta, 21, also of Silver Springs, was traveling southbound behind the green Honda Civic and ran over debris from the crash. He was able to avoid striking either of the two vehicles.

A witness to the incident was on the phone with NHP dispatchers when the crash occurred. The NHP said the witness was calling in to report a “reckless driver” in the Mercedes. The NHP said Johnson died at the scene, and Murray was taken to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno with nonlife threatening injuries. All occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

The NHP said Murray was released later Wednesday from the hospital and was placed under arrest.

Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Karen Garretson is investigating this crash. Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have any information related to this crash is encouraged to contact Garretson at 775-689-4625 or kgarretson@dps.state.nv.us