GAITHERSBURG, Md. — A 25-year-old man from Bethesda is now facing charges for his role in a deadly crash that resulted from an illegal speed race on Connecticut Avenue.
Owen Roland Kirill Fowler was arrested in connection with the March crash that claimed the life of 30-year-old Jobani Alfredo Cruz. Authorities say both drivers were engaged in dangerous racing, reaching speeds of 64 MPH in a 30 MPH zone, before the collision.
According to investigators, the deadly crash unfolded just after midnight when Fowler, behind the wheel of a white 2012 Mercedes SLK convertible, and Cruz, driving a 2023 Ram 1500 pickup, were reportedly engaged in a dangerous speed contest on Connecticut Avenue near Quincy Street.
The two drivers were racing northbound on Connecticut Avenue, weaving in and out of traffic and reaching dangerously high speeds. Investigators determined that Cruz, traveling at 64 MPH in a 30-mph zone, collided with Fowler’s car in the area near Connecticut Avenue and Primrose Street. The impact caused Cruz’s pickup to veer off the road, striking a utility pole and several trees before overturning. Fowler’s vehicle also flipped onto its roof.
Tragically, Cruz was pronounced dead, while Fowler was taken to the hospital with injuries.
Further investigation revealed that Cruz had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.12, exceeding the legal limit of 0.08. In addition, Fowler was found to be driving without a valid driver’s license and had a revoked privilege to operate a vehicle.
On Wednesday, Fowler was arrested and charged in connection with the deadly crash. He was subsequently released after posting 10% of a $5,000 bail.
The investigation into this crash remains active and ongoing.
