Inset: Julia Henderson (Mecklenburg County Jail) and Alex Jaden Rodriguez (Whitley’s Funeral Home). Background: North Carolina state troopers investigate after two women allegedly racing crashed into Alex’s motorcycle, tragically taking his life (WSOC).
In North Carolina, authorities have detained two women accused of recklessly speeding down a highway at astonishing speeds of over 132 mph. These drivers, one piloting an Audi and the other a Mercedes, were allegedly racing side by side when they violently collided with a motorcycle, resulting in the tragic death of a teenage rider.
Julia Henderson, aged 22, and Estrella Gutierrez-Perez, 21, now face serious charges, including second-degree murder and engaging in a spontaneous speed contest, following the unfortunate demise of 17-year-old Alex Jaden Rodriguez.
The dramatic incident unfolded late in the evening on July 25, around 7:30 p.m., as detailed in probable cause arrest affidavits. Witnesses and law enforcement reported that Henderson, behind the wheel of her Audi, reached blistering speeds of 132 mph, while Gutierrez-Perez was racing close behind in her Mercedes at speeds exceeding 120 mph. This high-stakes race took place on the southbound lanes of Interstate 85, close to the city of Charlotte.
In stark contrast, the legal speed limit on this stretch of highway is 60 mph.
The two vehicles collided with Alex, ejecting him from the motorcycle, per cops. Gutierrez-Perez’s Mercedes overturned and ended up on its roof. The motorcycle was pinned under the Audi, according to troopers with North Carolina Highway Patrol.
Troopers said Alex was going the speed limit. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A driver in a fourth vehicle involved in the crash suffered minor injuries.
Henderson was arrested on Thursday and is at the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond. Gutierrez-Perez was arrested Sunday evening. She’s at the Alamance County Jail without bond, records show. Their next court dates were not immediately listed.
Alex’s obituary describes him as a “dedicated student” who graduated a year early from high school.
“He was pursuing his passion for mechanics at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, aspiring to become a light duty diesel mechanic,” the obituary reads. “Known for his love of working on small engines and his ability to fix anything with a motor, Alex also cherished time spent hunting, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors. His warm nature meant he never met a stranger, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.”
The post Women racing Audi, Mercedes at 132 mph plow into motorcycle, killing teen who graduated high school a year early: Cops first appeared on Law & Crime.