Spooner Summit crash victim identified as Zephyr Cove man

Authorities released the name of a Zephyr Cove man killed in a Monday night accident on Spooner Summit.

Mark Scott Griffin, 49, was eastbound on Highway 50 West about four miles from Highway 395 when he lost control in a turn, according to Nevada Highway Patrol Sgt. Ron Larson.

He said Griffin's 1971 blue Dodge Challenger crossed the lanes, struck the guardrail, became airborne for a distance, then overturned several times down an embankment.

Griffin was ejected from the vehicle. The Dodge, so badly damaged it was unrecognizable, came to rest about 25 feet from Griffin's body and about 500 feet from the initial point of impact.

Homeowners who heard, but did not witness the crash, discovered the wreckage about 9 p.m. on Sierra Highlands Drive situated above Old Clear Creek Road in southwest Carson City.

"Speed appears to be a factor," said Larson.

A trooper on scene estimated Griffin's speed to likely be in excess of 80 mph.

The NHP is continuing the investigation and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the accident to call (775) 688-2500.

n Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.