The collision occurred at the southbound Interstate 19 off-ramp at West Valencia Road. Authorities said the crash took place on Saturday, February 7.
Tucson, AZ – A woman was killed in a three-vehicle crash at an intersection in Tucson on Saturday, according to the Tucson Police Department.
The collision occurred at the southbound Interstate 19 off-ramp at West Valencia Road. Authorities said the crash took place on Saturday, February 7.
Investigators determined that a white 2014 Honda Civic exited Interstate 19 at a high rate of speed and sideswiped a gold 2002 Toyota Camry before continuing forward and crashing into a white 2021 Freightliner tractor-trailer that was stopped at a red light.
Mariana Ruiz, 35, a passenger in the Honda Civic, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The 40-year-old male driver of the Civic was transported to a hospital for treatment. The drivers of the Toyota Camry and the Freightliner were not injured.
Preliminary findings indicate that excessive speed and the driver’s failure to maintain control were major contributing factors in the crash. Investigators are also working to determine whether alcohol or drugs played a role.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and secured the intersection while members of the Tucson Police Department’s Traffic Collision Investigation Unit conducted a detailed investigation. Ruiz’s family has been notified.
The crash caused disruptions near the southbound I-19 off-ramp and West Valencia Road as authorities worked to clear the vehicles and document evidence.
No citations or charges have been issued at this time. The Tucson crash remains under investigation.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Arizona records thousands of injury crashes and hundreds of traffic-related fatalities each year. In recent statewide data, more than 1,200 people have died annually in motor vehicle crashes, with speed listed as one of the leading contributing factors.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, speaking with a skilled car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide your family through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your loss. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.