Rimrock AZ (June 25, 2015) – Montezuma/Rimrock Fire Chief Keller reports that on Wednesday morning, June 24, at approximately 08:10 AM, Montezuma Rimrock and Camp Verde Fire Districts were dispatched to a reported vehicle accident into the building of the popular Vintages Grill in Rimrock. A single occupant was found in the vehicle, who sustained non-life threatening injuries as a result of the accident.
Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived on scene as the fire department was removing the driver. Prior to the crash, a witness saw the red Honda travelling north on Beaver Creek Road nearly “100 miles per hour.” Instead of rounding the curve, the car went straight and it appeared the driver never hit the brakes. Deputies spoke briefly with the driver, a Rimrock resident, who could not recall what caused him to leave the roadway. He remembered driving past the fire station and then ‘woke up’ after hitting the restaurant. Fortunately, the driver was wearing a seat belt.
The 17 year-old driver was treated on scene and then transported by MRFD ambulance to Verde Valley Medical Center for further evaluation. There was no evidence of intoxication regarding the driver – blood test results are pending. The driver was cited for Failure to Control Vehicle.
Unfortunately, the rear wall of Vintages suffered significant damage, including structural, plumbing, electrical system involvement, and a propane gas line was found to be leaking as well. MRFD crews secured the utilities to the structure, and the Camp Verde response was cancelled prior to their arrival.
The single employee in the building at the time of the crash was not injured.
Late reports indicate the business is to remain closed until repairs can be made. Fortunately, the vehicle involved missed the large propane tank on this part of the property as it careened down the hill into the building. Had this tank been hit, a significant fire possibly could have occurred