A Monday drive on State Route 74 near Lake Pleasant turned tragic when a chain-reaction crash left a Phoenix man dead, a teenage passenger clinging to life, and the highway shut down for hours as first responders worked the scene.
How the Crash Unfolded
According to KTAR News, investigators say the wreck started when a dump truck slammed into the back of a white Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling on SR 74. The impact spun the Jeep into oncoming traffic, where it collided with a black Ford Expedition, setting off a four-vehicle chain reaction across the highway.
After the initial collision, the dump truck left the roadway and tipped onto its passenger side, adding to the debris field that shut down the route and backed up traffic in the area.
Victim and Injuries
In a news release via the Peoria Police Department, authorities identified the man who died as 54-year-old Phoenix resident Lance Estervig. He was taken from the crash scene and pronounced dead at a hospital near 87th Avenue.
Police said a 17-year-old female passenger was hospitalized with critical, life-threatening injuries. A third driver involved in the pileup was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. The dump truck driver was not hurt and stayed at the scene, cooperating with detectives.
Investigation Ongoing
The Peoria Police Traffic Services Unit is handling the investigation, working to reconstruct the moments before the dump truck hit the Jeep and set off the deadly chain reaction. Officials have not said whether speed or impairment played any role in the wreck, KTAR News reported.
Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area with dash-cam footage or cell phone video to contact Peoria police to help fill in the gaps.
Road Closures and Witness Tips
SR 74 was shut down for hours while emergency crews treated the injured, cleared the wreckage, and detectives documented the scene, causing major delays on nearby surface streets and arterials. The Peoria Police Department’s release included contact information for witnesses and stressed that detectives are still working to nail down the full sequence of events.
No arrests or charges have been announced in connection with the crash. This story will be updated as the Peoria Police Department or investigators release additional details.
