Staff Reports
GRAHAM COUNTY — A local man was seriously injured in a single-vehicle ATV accident on Monday, Dec. 15, at the intersection of South Lebanon Loop Road and West Cactus Road. Authorities suspect alcohol impairment played a role in the crash.
According to a Graham County Sheriff’s Office report, Wesley Von Tress, 18, of Safford, was riding a red 2025 Honda TRX420 southbound on Lebanon Loop Road around 9:19 p.m. when he failed to stop at the posted stop sign at the T-intersection with Cactus Road. According to witness statements, the ATV continued straight across the intersection, struck a dirt berm on the south side of the road, flipped onto its side, and ejected the operator.
Von Tress, who was not wearing a helmet, was found lying unresponsive about six feet from the overturned vehicle under mesquite trees, with visible blood on his face. He was breathing but incoherent, making only moaning sounds when spoken to. Deputies noted a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and person. A glass Coors Light beer bottle containing liquid was discovered approximately one foot from the ATV and was collected as evidence.
One witness traveling westbound on Cactus Road reported seeing the ATV’s headlights approaching without slowing at the stop sign. She slowed her vehicle as the ATV proceeded through the intersection and crashed. Another witness arrived shortly after and found Von Tress unresponsive and called for emergency services.
The crash also caused minor damage to a double-arrow traffic sign owned by the Graham County Highway Department. Tire marks consistent with the ATV were observed leading from the pavement into the dirt berm.
Lifeline Ambulance responded and transported Von Tress to Mount Graham Regional Medical Center for treatment. A handgun was found on his person and secured by deputies. His condition reportedly declined during initial treatment, preventing the service of a search warrant for a blood sample related to suspected driving under the influence. He was then flown to another facility for additional treatment.
Von Tress’s parents were notified at their residence, and the ATV was towed for evidence.
The Graham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident as a suspected DUI-related crash. No further updates on Von Tress’s condition were available as of Wednesday, Dec. 17.
