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Avoca Today
By the People, for the People
Fatal Crash in Avoca Leaves Two Dead
Arkansas State Police investigating collision between SUV and motorcycle
Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:10am
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The aftermath of a fatal crash in Avoca, Arkansas exposes the harsh realities of negligent driving and the need for continued vigilance on the state's roads.Avoca TodayThe Arkansas State Police is investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Avoca, Arkansas. A Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by Jose Gamez, failed to yield to oncoming traffic and struck a motorcycle, killing the driver, Michael Cordes, 70, and his passenger, Freda Cordes, 67, both of Rogers. Gamez was arrested and charged with Negligent Homicide and Driving While Intoxicated.
Why it matters
Fatal crashes involving impaired or negligent drivers are a serious public safety concern in Arkansas, with the state consistently ranking among the highest in the nation for traffic fatalities per capita. This incident highlights the need for continued education and enforcement efforts to prevent such tragedies.
The details
According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash occurred around 12:15 p.m. on U.S. Highway 62 in Avoca. Gamez, who resides in Pea Ridge, failed to yield to oncoming traffic and struck the motorcycle operated by Michael Cordes, killing him and his passenger, Freda Cordes, at the scene. Gamez was not injured in the crash but was arrested and transported to the Benton County Detention Center, where he was booked on two counts of Negligent Homicide and Driving While Intoxicated. Further investigation revealed Gamez also had an active nationwide felony warrant issued by Los Angeles County, California.
- The crash occurred around 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
- Gamez was arrested and transported to the Benton County Detention Center following the incident.
The players
Jose Gamez
A 45-year-old resident of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, who was driving the Chevrolet Tahoe involved in the fatal crash.
Michael Cordes
The 70-year-old driver of the motorcycle who was killed in the collision.
Freda Cordes
The 67-year-old passenger on the motorcycle who was killed in the collision.
Arkansas State Police
The law enforcement agency investigating the fatal crash in Avoca.
What’s next
Gamez is being held at the Benton County Detention Center and is also being held at the request of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the importance of safe driving practices and the need for continued efforts to address impaired and negligent driving in Arkansas to prevent such devastating losses of life.