Three killed in Douglas County collision

A Mound House man and two Gardnerville women were killed Friday afternoon in a three-vehicle collision just south of Mica Drive on Highway 395 at about 3:30 p.m.

Michele Campbell, 39, and 45-year-old Jessica Ann Gomes, both of Gardnerville, were pronounced dead at the scene. John William Veader, 26, of Mound House, died after being taken by Care Flight to Washoe Medical Center at 4:46 p.m.

Indian Hills residents, some who live several streets over, heard the collision.

"Oh God, there was such a bang," Maria Klotz said. "I thought someone ran into the house."

About three dozen residents watched the scene, standing quietly along a small dirt road just south of Highway 395. The bodies of two victims were hidden under white sheets inside the crumpled sedans. Rubble from the impact was spread about 75 yards.

Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Patrick McGill said the preliminary investigation shows the tan 1989 pickup driven by Veader was northbound on Highway 395 when it veered left, crossed the dirt median and, with its left front, struck the left side of the Audi sedan driven by Campbell. The truck then was struck by a 1999 Buick sedan driven by Gomes.

McGill said it appears all three drivers were wearing seat belts. It is unknown if alcohol is a factor at this time.

The accident remains under investigation and toxicology results are pending.

The accident occurred in the southbound lane of Highway 395 about one-quarter mile south of Mica Drive. Traffic was rerouted until the road reopened at 7:20 p.m., he said.

In addition to the Douglas County Sheriff's Department, fire engines from the Jacks Valley, Johnson Lane, Minden and Douglas County fire districts responded to the accident.

The Nevada Highway Patrol will investigate, according to Douglas County Sheriff's Lt. Mike Biaggini.