PHOENIX — Authorities are investigating a serious traffic incident that occurred early Sunday morning in central Phoenix, resulting in the passing of one woman and injuries to three other people. The crash, which involved multiple vehicles, prompted a large emergency response and temporarily shut down a busy intersection as officials worked to assist victims and determine the cause.
According to the Phoenix Police Department, the accident happened around 4:30 a.m. at the intersection of 7th Avenue and Thomas Road. Initial reports indicated that three vehicles were involved, with one of them overturning during the collision. Firefighters, paramedics, and police officers quickly arrived on the scene after receiving multiple emergency calls.
When first responders reached the area, they found one of the cars overturned. Fire crews worked carefully to rescue a person who was trapped inside the flipped vehicle, using specialized equipment to safely free the individual. Despite their quick efforts, authorities confirmed that a woman involved in the crash did not survive.
Three additional people were injured in the collision and were promptly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Police said the injuries sustained by those individuals were not considered life-threatening. Medical personnel at the hospital are continuing to monitor their recovery.
The intersection of 7th Avenue and Thomas Road was immediately closed to traffic following the crash. Officers set up barriers and rerouted vehicles as investigators began examining the scene. The closure lasted several hours Sunday morning while police documented evidence, took measurements, and collected witness statements to help determine what led to the accident.
Phoenix police have not yet released the identity of the woman who lost her life, as they are working to notify her family. They have also not provided additional details regarding the conditions of the drivers or passengers in the other vehicles involved.
Investigators are looking into a variety of possible contributing factors, including vehicle speed, traffic signals, and road conditions at the time of the crash. As the investigation continues, officials will review any nearby surveillance footage and gather information from witnesses to better understand the sequence of events.
Residents and business owners near the intersection described being startled by the sound of the collision early that morning. Several people in the area said they saw emergency lights and heard sirens soon after. Many have expressed sadness over the tragic outcome and offered condolences to those affected.
Local authorities used the opportunity to remind drivers to remain alert and cautious on the road, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be lower and traffic patterns are lighter. They emphasized the importance of following posted speed limits, avoiding distractions, and wearing seat belts at all times to reduce the risk of serious injury in case of an accident.
The Phoenix Police Department’s traffic unit will continue to lead the investigation and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage to contact them. Their goal is to piece together exactly how the incident unfolded and identify any safety lessons that might help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As of Sunday afternoon, cleanup crews had reopened the intersection after removing debris and damaged vehicles from the roadway. Normal traffic has since resumed, but the community continues to reflect on the heartbreaking loss and the reminder of how quickly lives can change on the road.
Authorities are expected to release additional information in the coming days once more details are confirmed. For now, Phoenix residents are extending their support to the families and individuals affected as the investigation moves forward.
