Judge declares mistrial in deadly crash case involving dump truck, motorcycles

PHOENIX - A court official says a mistrial has been declared in the case of a dump truck driver who is accused of driving into a group of motorcyclists , killing four earlier this year.

Michael Jakscht was charged with 16 counts, including manslaughter, aggravated assault and endangerment in the March 25 accident.

Prosecutors alleged Jakscht was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the crash, but Jakscht said during the trial the accident was caused by faulty brakes on the truck he was driving. He also claimed he had taken diet pills.

Jakscht was driving a dump truck when he struck 10 motorcycles and three other vehicles near 27th Avenue and Carefree Highway.

Three riders died at the scene and the fourth died at the hospital. Five other riders were injured, including a Phoenix firefighter.

Court officials say jurors deadlocked Thursday over whether to convict Jakscht of manslaughter and assault.

An August 29 court hearing will determine whether Jakscht will be retried.