GPD Officer Arrested for Fatal Hit-and-Run; Faces 19 Charges
UPDATE: A Guam Police Department officer, Derrick Atan, has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of 30-year-old John Carlos Daniel Yangco Haas on November 30, 2025. The arrest, announced by Police Chief Stephen Ignacio during a press conference at GPD headquarters, comes after investigators linked Atan’s vehicle to the tragic collision on Route 14 in Tamuning.
The incident, which occurred early on November 30, left Haas dead after he was struck by an orange Ford F-150 pickup truck. He was transported to the Guam Memorial Hospital but was pronounced dead at 3:45 a.m. due to blunt trauma, as confirmed by Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Kenny Su. Chief Ignacio stated that the investigation revealed critical evidence, including surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts, leading to Atan’s identification as the driver.
Upon initial investigation, officers were alerted to an orange Ford F-150 with no visible plate number. Hours later, Atan was involved in a separate crash with the same vehicle model, prompting officers to suspect foul play due to inconsistencies in his account of the incident. “The investigating officer noted discrepancies between the scene of the alleged crash and the damages to Atan’s vehicle,” Ignacio revealed.
Atan now faces a staggering 19 charges, including vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of an accident, driving while impaired, and falsifying evidence. The police chief confirmed that alcohol was a factor in the crash, emphasizing the severity of the situation. “A fatal car crash is a very tragic incident,” Ignacio remarked, underscoring the impact on both the victim’s family and the community.
Atan was placed on administrative leave immediately after the allegations surfaced. He was booked at 1:56 p.m. on Thursday and remains in custody as the investigation continues. Ignacio stated that the internal affairs process will run concurrently with the criminal investigation, which is expected to conclude within 90 days.
The tragic incident marks Guam’s 18th traffic fatality of the year, raising alarms regarding road safety. Ignacio reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic laws: “Speeding and alcohol continue to be primary factors in fatal car crashes. Follow the speed limit, wear your seat belt, and don’t drink and drive.”
This developing story underscores the urgent need for enhanced public safety measures and accountability within the Guam Police Department. The case is set to be forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General, with a magistrate hearing anticipated within 48 hours. The community is urged to stay vigilant as further details unfold in this shocking and tragic case.
