A central Phoenix intersection turned into a crime scene late Friday when a driver hit a pedestrian, then took off, leaving the man fighting for his life, authorities say.
The crash happened just after 9 p.m. near 19th Avenue and Glendale Avenue. First responders found the man badly hurt in the roadway and rushed him to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, according to Arizona's Family.
Investigators told the station they believe the man was walking in a crosswalk against the signal when he was struck. The driver did not stick around, and police are now searching for whoever was behind the wheel.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS, or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish speakers.
Intersection Has A History Of Serious Crashes
The stretch of 19th Avenue at Glendale has seen more than its share of serious wrecks in recent years, including past hit-and-run and fatal-crash investigations that Phoenix police have publicly logged. The Phoenix Police Department's archive of past media advisories lists several investigations at 19th Avenue and Glendale Avenue, a track record that highlights long-standing safety concerns at the intersection, according to the Phoenix Police Department.
Potential Criminal Exposure For Driver
Under Arizona law, leaving the scene of a crash that causes serious injury or death can be charged as a felony. Courts have repeatedly emphasized that drivers are required to stop and remain at the scene when someone is hurt. The Arizona Court of Appeals has spelled out those duties and the possible felony exposure under A.R.S. § 28-661 in recent opinions, a legal framework that would come into play if investigators identify the driver who fled, according to the Arizona Court of Appeals.
How To Help Investigators
Police are asking anyone who saw the crash or has video from the area to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS, or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish speakers; tips can be left anonymously. That request, and the timeline and location details that investigators say could help the case, were reported by Arizona's Family.
