LANDER, Wyo. — A 33-year-old Lander man has been charged with multiple felonies, including homicide by vehicle, following a deadly two-vehicle crash in Riverton that claimed two lives on June 17, according to Riverton Police Chief Eric Hurtado.
Chief Hurtado confirmed to County 10 that Michael Odom was identified as the driver involved in the fatal collision on Federal Boulevard (WY 789), where investigators say speeding, a traffic signal violation, and suspected impairment played key roles in the crash.
According to a preliminary report from the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Odom was traveling northbound on Federal Boulevard at what authorities described as a “high rate of speed,” in a zone where the posted speed limit is 30 mph. Investigators also noted that the vehicle “almost collided with several other vehicles” prior to the crash.
The report states that Odom’s vehicle failed to stop at a red traffic signal and collided with a vehicle attempting a left turn from East Webbwood Road.
Emergency responders were called to the scene, where Odom had to be extricated from his vehicle. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second victim later died at the hospital due to their injuries. One of the victims has been identified as Taylee Dresser.
Chief Hurtado stated that Odom appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the incident. He also allegedly attempted to flee from law enforcement while being questioned, leading to a brief foot pursuit before he was taken into custody.
Odom has been formally charged with Homicide by Vehicle, Driving Under the Influence (DUI), and Resisting or Interfering with a Peace Officer.
The crash remains under investigation by the Wyoming Highway Patrol and Riverton Police Department as authorities continue to review evidence and circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.
