A fatal collision involving two vehicles and a motorcycle in Buford last month was not exactly what it seemed, police said today.
Five people have been arrested on multiple charges, ranging from first degree vehicular homicide to tampering with evidence, in connection with the April 26 death of Brandon Gaylor, 24, according to a news release from Gwinnett County police spokesman, Cpl. Jake Smith.
Authorities are still investigating the exact sequence of events, but, Jennifer Schoeppler, 25; Andre Daniels, 20; Noelle Gretzinger, 24; and Titis Newsome, 24, were all arrested on charges of first degree vehicular homicide, reckless driving, racing, and speeding. All except Newsome, who was also arrested for allegedly tampering with evidence, face charges of following too closely. Gretzinger also faces hit and run, and tampering with evidence charges.
According to police: Gaylor, Schoeppler, Daniels, Gretzinger, and Newsome, were all together during the early morning hours of April 26. They left a restaurant in Flowery Branch and headed to Gaylor’s house in Buford. The group was racing down Duncan Creek Road as they approached Gaylor’s residence, police said.
The caravan, consisting of four cars led by Gaylor’s motorcycle, made it to the driveway of his Duncan Creek Road residence when Gaylor slowed down and was then struck by Schoeppler’s vehicle. Gaylor was knocked from his motorcycle and was lying in the roadway when he was struck by Gretzinger’s car. At some point Daniels’ vehicle struck Gaylor’s motorcycle. Newsome’s car did not strike Gaylor or his motorcycle, police said.
Police say two people helped Gretzinger, who was dating Gaylor, hide her car after the incident, Newsome and her father, 52-year-old Gary Woodruff. Woodruff was arrested on charges of evidence tampering and obstruction of an officer.
Police say before they arrived on the scene, Gretzinger’s car was removed from the street and two other cars were rearranged. Gaylor died at the scene, according to the release.
Gwinnett police say the five suspects have been released on bond.
