GOLDEN, Colo. (June 6, 2022) – Daniel Short (DOB: 12-23-1956) was sentenced today by the First Judicial District Court to 5 years in the Department of Corrections for the crash that caused the death of 59-year-old Julia “Julie” Pacheco. On Apr. 18, 2022, Short pled guilty to Vehicular Homicide and Driving Under the Influence – Third or Subsequent Alcohol-Related Offense. Short had three prior Driving Under the Influence convictions from 1977, 1988, and 1993.
The family of Pacheco described her to the court as a beloved Mother, Grandmother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, and friend to so many people. “Julie would have been the person that would have offered to give the Defendant a ride home had he only had the decency to ask for a ride instead of driving under the influence.”
“While Mr. Short didn’t set out to hurt anyone on October 4th, 2021, he made choices that caused the irrevocable tragedy before the Court,” said Deputy District Attorney Riley Gonya. “He drank and drove for the 4th time, he drove recklessly, and he crashed into Julie Pacheco, ending her life. Our hearts are with Ms. Pacheco’s friends and family as they continue to grieve her loss. We know that nothing can return what they have lost, but we are honored to give Julie a voice.”
Just after 9 p.m. on Oct. 4, 2021, Short, driving a gold Lexus sedan was southbound on Sheridan Boulevard following two motorcycles, one driven by Pacheco. Near the intersection of South Sheridan Boulevard and West Yale Avenue, Short struck Pacheco’s motorcycle from behind and dragged her a short distance before coming to a stop. Pacheco was pronounced deceased upon transport to the hospital.
Multiple witnesses reported Short was speeding and driving recklessly before hitting the victim. Short remained on the scene and told police he had been at a golf tournament earlier in the day and admitted to drinking beers and smoking marijuana. He was also found to be in possession of cocaine.