An investigation is underway following a fatal collision involving an Apache Junction police officer. The accident, which occurred at the intersection of Apache Trail and Valley Drive at approximately 4:20 pm on Tuesday, December 17, has raised questions within the community. The officer, who has been with the department for three years, was responding to a call about a road rage incident when their cruiser collided with a civilian vehicle.
The crash's aftermath was grim—the officer sustained injuries requiring hospitalization, and the driver of the other vehicle, identified as Kaja Pendic, succumbed to their injuries, as reported by the City of Apache Junction. This fatal incident has left the officer's colleagues and Pendic's family grieving. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has taken the lead in the investigation—a routine procedure in incidents involving law enforcement in Arizona.
An official statement from the Apache Junction Police Department expressed condolences and stated, "Our thoughts are with the families of those involved during this difficult time." However, details about the dynamics of the crash have yet to be released. As DPS continues the investigation, the officer's name has not been disclosed, nor has information about what preceded the tragic event.
For those seeking updates or who may have pertinent information, PIO Rayna Steffen of the Apache Junction Police Department has been designated as the point of contact and can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 480-474-5442, the City of Apache Junction stated.
