On July 19th, 2024, at approximately 11:00 P.M., Lake Havasu City Police Department was dispatched to the area of SR 95 and Airport Center Boulevard in reference to a traffic collision involving two vehicles and a burro. Upon officers’ arrival, it was determined that a 2015 Kia Sol driven by 81-year-old Gary Fratus, was traveling northbound on SR 95 approaching Airport Center Boulevard when it struck a burro crossing the highway. The Kia then veered left into oncoming traffic and struck a large box truck head-on that was traveling southbound on SR 95.

Gary suffered from what initially appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the Havasu Regional Medical Center.  On July 20th, 2024, the Lake Havasu City Police Department was notified that Gary succumbed to injuries sustained from the collision. The Lake Havasu City Police Department Crash Team has assumed the investigation, and it is still ongoing. At this point, alcohol and drug impairment, or speed are not believed to be a factor.

The Lake Havasu City Police Department has received an increase in calls in reference to burros lingering near the area of SR 95. We would like to remind our community to exercise caution while traveling on SR 95 near an open desert area and remain aware of the potential dangers from wildlife entering the highway.

Public Information Officer:  Sergeant Kyle Ridgway