Two killed in motorcycle crash near Avoca

RELATED VIDEO: Motorcycle crash reported on Highway 62 in Avoca (March 26 AVOCA, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Two people were killed in a crash Thursday afternoon near Avoca, according to a preliminary report from the Arkansas State Police. The crash happened around 12:30 p.m. on U.S. Highway 62 at Russell Road. A 2001 Chevy Tahoe turning left into the path of an oncoming 1989 Harley-Davidson was struck. The motorcycle’s driver, 70-year-old Michael J. Cordes of Rogers, and passenger, 67-year-old Freda I. Cordes of Rogers, were both killed. No injuries were reported for anyone else involved. The weather was clear and the roadway was dry at the time of the crash. according to the report. Arkansas State Police, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, the Pea Ridge Police Department and Avoca Fire and Rescue responded. Jose Luis Gamez, 45, was arrested in connection with the crash. He faces two counts of negligent homicide, one count of first-offense DWI, and one count of improper entry or exit at an intersection. Bond was set at $500,000 for one negligent homicide charge and cash/surety for the others. Gamez is also being held for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Northwest Arkansas Humane Society for Animals said the victims owned several dogs and is seeking help identifying them and finding adopters or family members. Anyone with information or interested in adopting is asked to contact the society.