November 24th 2024.
A tragic incident has come to a close as a 38-year-old man was sentenced to 24 years in prison for the deaths of a Broomfield woman and her son in a drunken-driving crash. According to the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Jose Menjivar pleaded guilty to two counts of vehicular homicide on September 19th. The victims, Melissa Powell and her 16-year-old son Riordan Powell, were involved in the fatal crash.
The accident occurred on Main Street and Miramonte Boulevard near Broomfield High School, where Menjivar was driving at an alarming speed of 80 to 100 mph in a 40 mph zone. The impact of the crash was devastating, as Melissa Powell's SUV was hit by Menjivar's vehicle. Tragically, Riordan Powell, a junior at the high school, lost his life in the incident.
It was later revealed that Menjivar had a troubling history with driving under the influence. Prior to the crash, he had been convicted of DUI five times dating back to 2007. In fact, just four days before the fatal incident, he had been sentenced to a year in a jail work release program. However, he was still awaiting a vacancy in the program at the time of the accident.
Further investigations uncovered disturbing evidence that pointed to Menjivar's level of intoxication. Empty beer cans were found in his car, one on the roadway, and an open case of beer with missing cans in the back of his vehicle. His blood-alcohol content was also tested at .249, more than three times the legal limit.
Adding to the tragedy, it was discovered that Menjivar had been deported four times in the past - in 2009, 2012, 2014, and 2015. After the crash, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials issued an immigration detainer to Broomfield County.
The loss of Melissa and Riordan Powell's lives was a devastating blow to their family and community. As we reflect on this heartbreaking case, it serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating consequences it can have. Let us all do our part to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.
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