News Summary
The family of Patricia Taveapont, severely injured in a hit-and-run incident in Phoenix, is urging for better investigation protocols. As frustration mounts due to the lack of updates from law enforcement, they highlight the importance of community involvement in addressing rising hit-and-run incidents, which have left many in the area concerned for their safety. This tragedy adds to a troubling narrative for the family, as they seek justice and accountability amidst escalating statistics on hit-and-runs in Arizona.
Phoenix Family Calls for Action on Hit-and-Run Cases Following Serious Injury
Phoenix has seen a growing concern over hit-and-run incidents as the family of Patricia Taveapont, who suffered severe injuries in a recent hit-and-run, advocates for better investigation protocols. Taveapont was injured on June 6 while running an errand with her roommate near 35th Avenue and Fillmore Street. A driver reversed into her, pinning her legs between two vehicles and fleeing the scene.
The hit-and-run left Taveapont with multiple fractures in her leg and serious damage to her arteries. Following the incident, she underwent a grueling seven-hour surgery focused on repairing her veins. Her family has been left with unanswered questions about the case and dissatisfaction over the lack of decisive action from authorities.
Community Response and Frustration
Frustration has escalated as Shirlene Yazzie, Taveapont’s mother, reported no updates from law enforcement in the two months following the incident. In her determination to seek justice for her daughter, Yazzie independently acquired video footage of the hit-and-run and posted it online to solicit assistance from the community. She believes that public awareness and involvement are crucial in addressing hit-and-run incidents.
This incident marks a tragic chapter in an already distressing narrative for Yazzie’s family; her cousin was killed in a hit-and-run in Phoenix in 2022. Following that incident, the police arrested a driver, but it remains unclear if formal charges were pursued. This has exacerbated the family’s concerns regarding accountability in such cases.
Statistics on Hit-and-Run Incidents
The frequency of hit-and-run accidents in Arizona is alarming, with the state ranking third nationally for such incidents, as reported by the US Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Phoenix alone, over 6,000 hit-and-run reports have been recorded in 2023. Among those, more than 400 have resulted in injuries, and 19 incidents have been fatal.
In Taveapont’s case, the Phoenix police have indicated that they are recommending charges against a suspect, pending the decision from the county attorney’s office. Taveapont, despite her grave injuries, has been told by medical staff that she is fortunate to have survived the accident.
Importance of Community Involvement
Yazzie has emphasized the paramount role of community engagement in combating hit-and-run incidents. She has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, encouraging a collective effort to improve safety in their neighborhoods. The sentiment, “If you see something, say something,” has become a focal point in the family’s call for action.
As this family continues to seek clarity on Taveapont’s case, their advocacy may play a significant role in raising awareness about the urgent need for more effective measures in hit-and-run investigations. It highlights not only the personal tragedy faced by Taveapont and her family, but also reflects broader concerns regarding road safety and accountability in the midst of rising statistics surrounding these incidents.
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Additional Resources
- ABC15 News
- 12 News
- AZ Family
- Fox 10 Phoenix
- AZ Central
- Wikipedia: Hit-and-run
- Google Search: hit-and-run statistics Arizona
- Google Scholar: hit-and-run current trends
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hit-and-run
- Google News: Phoenix hit-and-run
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
