Intoxicated Driver Kills Father of Five in Nevada Crash

Waymon Wells allegedly ran a red light while rushing to place a casino bet, striking and killing Joshua Baker on his motorcycle.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:30pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered motorcycle taillight lens against a pitch-black background, capturing the stark, gritty aftermath of a fatal collision.A shattered motorcycle taillight lens reflects the harsh reality of a fatal crash caused by an intoxicated driver.Las Vegas Today

A 48-year-old father of five was killed in Las Vegas when his motorcycle was struck by an intoxicated driver who ran a red light while allegedly rushing to place a bet at a casino. The driver, 64-year-old Waymon Wells, was under the influence of multiple substances including cocaine and THC when he failed to stop at the intersection and collided with Joshua Baker's Harley-Davidson, ejecting him from the vehicle. Baker was pronounced dead at the scene.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can have on innocent victims and their families. It also raises questions about the role of gambling addiction and the need for greater awareness and support around substance abuse issues.

The details

According to police, Wells was driving a 2016 Jeep Renegade and "failed to use due care" as he approached the red light where Baker was sitting on his 2025 Harley-Davidson Road Glide. The front of Wells' Jeep struck the rear of Baker's motorcycle, launching him into the air. Baker was pronounced dead at the scene. Wells also struck a Kia Telluride that was idling at the light. He told officers he was on his way to place a bet when the crash occurred.

  • The crash occurred on April 8, 2026 at the intersection of West Oakey Boulevard and South Verde Jardin Way in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • Wells was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with DUI of alcohol and/or controlled substances resulting in death, driving without a license, and failure to decrease speed.

The players

Waymon Wells

A 64-year-old man who was driving under the influence of cocaine, benzodiazepines, 11-Hydroxy-THC, and Delta-9-THC when he ran a red light and struck Joshua Baker's motorcycle, killing him.

Joshua Baker

A 48-year-old father of five who was killed when his Harley-Davidson motorcycle was struck by Wells' vehicle while he was sitting at a red light.

Renee Barber

Joshua Baker's wife, who expressed grief over the loss of her husband and the father of their five children.

Amanda Nalder

The attorney representing Joshua Baker's family, who stated that his death "could've been prevented" and that Wells "made that choice to be on that road that day."

Red Rock Harley-Davidson

The motorcycle dealership where Joshua Baker worked as a master technician, describing him as someone who "lived and breathed the Harley-Davidson spirit" and "built more than machines - he built relationships, trust, and a legacy that will ride on for years to come."

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What they’re saying

“It's something that could've been prevented. He made that choice to be on that road that day. Josh just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time that day.”

— Amanda Nalder, Attorney representing Joshua Baker's family

“We are going to be lost without him, and he has five children, who now don't have a father because of somebody's choice to be under the influence and drive.”

— Renee Barber, Joshua Baker's wife

What’s next

Wells is being held on $500,000 bail and is facing charges of DUI resulting in death, driving without a license, and failure to decrease speed. The case is ongoing as prosecutors continue to build their case against him.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving and the importance of addressing substance abuse and addiction issues in our communities. It underscores the need for greater education, enforcement, and support to prevent such senseless losses of life.