WICHITA, Kan. — Wichita police arrested 19-year-old Gauge Brasher Friday evening in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed 14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa. The crash occurred Wednesday at Harry and Rock Road.
Brasher was taken into custody around 4 p.m. Friday near the 3100 block of E. Range Rd. He had initially been hospitalized following the crash but left the facility before police could locate him, prompting a search.
A 24-year-old passenger in the vehicle was detained but later released without charges.
After reviewing the case, the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office charged Brasher with second-degree murder. He will be booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on the charge.
Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan expressed sorrow for the victim’s family, stating, “A 14-year-old should be safe standing on a sidewalk. We grieve with this family and everyone hurting. We will stand with them and do everything we can to seek justice.”
On Wednesday evening around 6:30 p.m., a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper discovered the crash scene near Harry and Rock Road. Two men fled the site on foot but were quickly caught.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the dark-colored BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck a power pole and utility box, which then struck Nzabonimpa on the sidewalk, causing his death at the scene.
Witnesses identified Brasher as the driver. Police suspect he was driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, with speed and impairment believed to be factors in the crash.
Chief Sullivan assured the public that the police department is reviewing its policies to ensure alignment with community expectations and provide clear guidance for officers.
The investigation remains ongoing.
