Aleesha Herrington, Dejon Nicole Weaver Obituary, Death – Authorities with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) have released the identities of those who lost their lives in a two-vehicle collision that occurred on the evening of Saturday, October 11. The tragic incident took place around 8:10 p.m. on State Route 86 near Milepost 168, east of Drexel Heights.
According to AZDPS, the crash involved a Jeep Cherokee and a Ford Fusion. Preliminary information indicates that the Jeep Cherokee, which was operating as a ride-share vehicle at the time, was attempting to make a left turn when it was struck by the Ford Fusion. The impact caused the Jeep to overturn and leave the roadway, resulting in severe damage to both vehicles.
Two passengers in the rear seat of the Jeep Cherokee, identified as 25-year-old Aleesha Herrington and 48-year-old Dejon Nicole Weaver, sadly did not survive the crash and were pronounced deceased at the scene. A 17-year-old male who was sitting in the rear seat of the Ford Fusion was also pronounced deceased following the collision.
The driver of the Jeep Cherokee, 82-year-old Waymon Hamlett of Tucson, was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. Despite receiving medical treatment, Hamlett passed away from his injuries on October 15, four days after the incident. Authorities confirmed his identity and extended condolences to the families of all involved.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash to determine what may have led to the collision. Officials are examining multiple factors, including traffic conditions, road lighting, speed, and visibility at the time of the incident. AZDPS has not released information regarding the driver of the Ford Fusion or whether any contributing factors such as impairment or distraction are suspected.
The crash temporarily caused significant disruptions to traffic on State Route 86, as eastbound lanes were closed for several hours to allow investigators and emergency responders to process the scene. Crews worked through the night to collect evidence, document vehicle positions, and clear debris before reopening the roadway to drivers.
AZDPS has not released the hometowns of the victims at this time, and officials have stated that further details will be shared once the ongoing investigation is complete. Law enforcement agencies often take several days to review scene evidence, witness statements, and potential video footage from nearby vehicles or cameras to gain a clearer understanding of events.
News of the crash has deeply affected the local community, with many residents expressing their sympathy and condolences for the families of those who lost their lives. Friends and acquaintances of the victims have described the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly tragedy can occur on the road.
Community leaders and public safety officials have emphasized the importance of driving with caution, particularly when turning across oncoming lanes or navigating busy highways like State Route 86. They urged drivers to remain attentive, obey speed limits, and ensure that turns and lane changes are made safely and only when traffic is clear.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a thorough and fair investigation. Officials will continue analyzing all available evidence to determine whether additional factors contributed to the crash. The department also reminded the public that cooperation with investigators and adherence to safe driving practices are vital in preventing similar tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, families and friends of the victims are receiving an outpouring of community support. The loss of four lives in a single crash has underscored the importance of road safety awareness and the shared responsibility of all drivers to remain vigilant on Arizona highways.
