James Brown of Black Canyon City charged with DUI death of Chad Dube

Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Scott Mascher – Sheriff

Accident Involving DUI Driver results in Passengers Death

Arrest Warrant issued for Driver

YCSO is seeking the whereabouts of 55-year-old James Brown from Black Canyon City for charges involving Manslaughter and DUI. A $100,000 warrant has been issued for his arrest. Anyone with information is urged to call Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232. If the tip leads to Brown’s arrest, the caller will be eligible for a cash reward. Recent attempts to locate Brown have been unsuccessful. Brown is 5’ 09” and 220 pounds.

Background – On April 11, 2015, just before 8PM, YCSO deputies were dispatched to an overturned green Jeep Cherokee on Bumble Bee Road near mile marker 3, Black Canyon City. The call also indicated a person was trapped inside the vehicle. Upon arrival, deputies found the overturned Jeep in a ditch with numerous beers cans and liquor bottles strewn nearby. Deputies found the driver, Brown, on the ground just outside the driver’s door. He was bleeding but conscious.

Deputies discovered a male passenger pinned underneath the Jeep with no signs of life. EMS personnel arrived and confirmed the death of 40-year-old Black Canyon City resident Chad Dube. During contact with Brown, deputies could smell a strong odor of alcohol as Brown admitted drinking just prior to the crash at an area bar.

Due to a deep laceration in Brown’s head, he was treated at the scene and then airlifted to a Phoenix area hospital. The investigation into the crash and passenger death was ongoing while Brown received medical treatment.

Blood test results returned with a .176 reading, over twice the legal limit and the County Attorney has alleged the indicated charges as a result of the investigation.