The collision occurred near 51st Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026.
Phoenix, AZ – One person was killed following a head-on crash involving a city bus in west Phoenix early Monday morning, according to the Phoenix Police Department.
The collision occurred near 51st Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026.
According to police investigators, Mota Jr. Delfino, 48, of Phoenix, was driving a pickup truck when he attempted to pass traffic using a left-turn lane, swerved to avoid another vehicle, entered oncoming traffic, and collided head-on with a Valley Metro bus.
Delfino was taken to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. No passengers were on the bus at the time, and the bus driver was uninjured. Authorities did not report any arrests related to the crash.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with Phoenix Police continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the truck entering oncoming traffic.
Phoenix Police officers responded to the scene, and Valley Metro personnel assisted with on-scene assessment and traffic management.
Lower Buckeye Road was closed in both directions from 45th Avenue to 50th Avenue, causing temporary traffic delays, but has since reopened after the crash scene was cleared.
The Phoenix crash remains under investigation as officials work to determine contributing factors and the exact sequence of events leading up to the collision.
Arizona Traffic Crash Statistics
Traffic fatalities in Arizona have remained a public safety concern. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), 1,121 people were killed in traffic crashes statewide in 2022, followed by 1,045 fatalities in 2023. Early data for 2024 indicate a continuing trend of serious and fatal crashes, particularly involving single-vehicle collisions and incidents in urban areas. ADOT continues to emphasize roadway safety measures, enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to reduce fatalities on Arizona roads.
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.