Las Vegas, Nevada – A suspected drunk driver was arrested near the Las Vegas Strip after allegedly veering onto a sidewalk and striking a woman and her 2-year-old daughter in a stroller, leaving the child with life-threatening injuries. Police say a witness followed the driver after the crash and alerted authorities, leading to his arrest within minutes.
The incident occurred on the evening of February 8, sending multiple victims to the hospital and prompting serious DUI-related charges.
Incident Overview
According to an arrest report from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Gavin Caci, 28, was taken into custody at approximately 7:45 p.m. after officers responded to reports of a hit-and-run crash near Harmon Avenue and Koval Lane, just east of the Strip.
Police allege that Caci was driving a Tesla when he veered onto a sidewalk and struck a woman pushing her 2-year-old daughter in a stroller. The collision also involved a third pedestrian and another vehicle.
Authorities said the child suffered life-threatening skull fractures and brain bleeding, while the mother was also diagnosed with brain bleeding. Both victims, identified only as United Kingdom nationals, were transported to University Medical Center for treatment.
Timeline of Events
Investigators say the crash unfolded shortly before officers received a 911 call from a witness who had observed the collision.
The witness reportedly saw the Tesla strike pedestrians and then leave the scene. Instead of losing sight of the vehicle, the individual followed the Tesla and contacted police, reporting that the driver had pulled into the parking area at Topgolf Las Vegas, located south of East Harmon Avenue.
Officers arrived within minutes and arrested Caci at the scene.
Details From Police
According to the arrest report, Caci allegedly told officers he had consumed “about one or two drinks” before driving. Authorities conducted their investigation and placed him under arrest on suspicion of DUI and leaving the scene of a crash involving injuries.
A third pedestrian was also struck in the incident and taken to UMC with minor injuries, police said. Additionally, the driver of a Chevrolet that was rear-ended by Caci reported minor injuries.
While formal charges were not detailed in the initial report, DUI crashes involving substantial bodily harm can carry severe penalties under Nevada law, including felony charges, lengthy prison terms, and license revocation.
Key Facts
- Suspect: Gavin Caci
- Age: 28
- Date of crash: February 8
- Time of arrest: About 7:45 p.m.
- Location: Harmon Avenue and Koval Lane, near the Las Vegas Strip
- Arrest location: Topgolf on Koval Lane
- Victims: Woman and 2-year-old daughter (United Kingdom nationals)
- Child’s injuries: Life-threatening skull fractures and brain bleeding
- Hospital: University Medical Center
- Additional victims: Third pedestrian and Chevrolet driver with minor injuries
Suspect Background
Multiple social media profiles, including LinkedIn, list Caci as a VIP nightclub host and liaison for Tao Group Hospitality, a New York-based company that operates nightclubs and hospitality venues in Las Vegas and other major cities.
Officials have not indicated whether his employment status has been affected by the arrest.
Additional Context on DUI Risks
Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of serious injury and fatal crashes in Nevada and across the United States. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair reaction time, judgment, and motor coordination.
When vehicles leave the roadway and enter pedestrian areas, the risk of catastrophic injuries increases significantly, particularly for children in strollers who are vulnerable to head trauma.
Authorities consistently urge drivers to use ride-sharing services, designated drivers, or taxis if they plan to consume alcohol. Areas near the Strip are especially busy with tourists and pedestrians, making impaired driving particularly dangerous.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not released further details about the condition of the 2-year-old or her mother. The investigation into the crash remains active, and prosecutors will determine formal charges based on the evidence collected.
Court records are expected to provide additional information in the coming days as the case proceeds through the judicial system.
Conclusion
The swift action of a witness who followed the suspected driver helped law enforcement locate and arrest the individual within minutes of the crash. However, the impact on the victims — particularly the young child — remains severe.
This case highlights the potentially devastating consequences of impaired driving, especially in high-traffic pedestrian areas near the Las Vegas Strip.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a DUI-related crash, local support services and victim advocacy organizations can provide assistance. Share your experiences in the comments below.
