A man was struck and killed Thursday night in south Phoenix at the intersection of 7th Avenue and Elwood Street, and the driver who hit him never stuck around. Emergency crews pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene, and police say the vehicle took off before officers arrived. Detectives have launched a hit-and-run investigation, and the victim’s identity has not yet been released.
Driver Bolts Before Cops Arrive
According to 12 News, Phoenix officers responded to reports of a collision at the intersection late Thursday and found the pedestrian unresponsive. Investigators say the car had already fled the area, and the case is now in the hands of the Phoenix Police Vehicular Crimes Unit. Detectives are asking anyone with information or video to contact authorities.
Pedestrian Deaths Keep Climbing Statewide
The crash is part of a wider pattern of pedestrian deaths in Arizona. The Arizona Department of Transportation's 2024 Motor Vehicle Crash Facts recorded 2,079 pedestrian-involved crashes and 263 pedestrian fatalities last year. The report also shows Maricopa County accounted for 1,516 pedestrian crashes and 158 pedestrian deaths, a large share of the statewide total.
What the Law Says About Fleeing a Fatal Crash
Under Arizona law, drivers involved in accidents that result in death or serious physical injury must stop, remain at the scene and render reasonable aid. Failing to do so can be charged as a felony under A.R.S. § 28-661. If prosecutors can show the fleeing motorist caused serious injury or death, penalties can include elevated felony classifications and multi-year license revocations.
How the Public Can Help
Anyone with information about the crash, including dash-cam or door-cam video from the area around 7th and Elwood, is asked to contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or call Phoenix police non-emergency lines. Tips can be submitted anonymously online, and investigators say even brief video clips can be crucial to identifying the vehicle.
