Phoenix Sees Two Significant Pedestrian Incidents

Phoenix, January 13, 2026

Within a span of 48 hours, Phoenix has witnessed two serious pedestrian accidents: a fatal hit-and-run in North Phoenix and another incident resulting in serious injuries in central Phoenix. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious on the roads as investigations are underway to identify the responsible parties. Pedestrian safety concerns are rising due to factors such as distracted driving and high traffic flow in urban areas.

Phoenix Sees Two Significant Pedestrian Incidents Within 48 Hours

Phoenix, Arizona – The city of Phoenix has experienced two serious pedestrian incidents within the last 48 hours, including a fatal hit-and-run collision in the north part of the city and another incident in central Phoenix that left a man seriously injured. Authorities are actively investigating both events and urge the public to exercise caution on roadways.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Claims Life in North Phoenix

A pedestrian died on Monday night, January 12, 2026, after being involved in a suspected hit-and-run crash in North Phoenix. The incident occurred around 7:29 p.m. MST near the intersection of 35th Avenue and Thunderbird Road. Emergency services responded to the scene where they found a woman in critical condition. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Authorities confirmed that a vehicle believed to be involved in the collision fled the scene. As of now, the identity of the woman has not been released. Police have also not provided a description of the potential vehicle or any suspect involved in this fatal incident.

Investigation Underway and Public Assistance Sought

The Phoenix Police Department is conducting an active investigation into the circumstances surrounding the hit-and-run. Investigators are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in locating the responsible driver and vehicle. Anyone with details regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Silent Witness. Tips can be provided in English by calling 480-948-6377, or in Spanish by calling 480-837-8446.

Man Seriously Injured in Central Phoenix Collision

Earlier on Monday morning, January 12, 2026, a separate incident in central Phoenix resulted in a man being seriously injured after he was struck by a car. The man was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. [cite: original prompt text]

Details regarding the exact location of this collision within central Phoenix and the full circumstances surrounding the event remain limited. Local authorities advised drivers to avoid the area during the initial response and investigation. The current condition of the injured man has not been publicly updated. [cite: original prompt text]

Pedestrian Safety Concerns in Phoenix

These recent incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian safety across Phoenix. Urban areas like Phoenix, with their wide intersections, heavy traffic flow, and fast-moving vehicles, often present significant dangers for individuals traveling on foot.

When pedestrians are struck by vehicles, even at moderate speeds, the consequences can be severe. Common injuries include head trauma, internal bleeding, and fractures, frequently requiring extensive hospital stays and costly rehabilitation. Beyond the immediate physical trauma, victims and their families often face considerable emotional and financial burdens due to medical expenses and lost income.

Several factors contribute to pedestrian crashes in metropolitan settings such as Phoenix. Distracted driving, where motorists are preoccupied with mobile devices or fail to adequately observe crosswalks, is a frequent cause. Speeding and drivers failing to yield the right-of-way are also significant contributors. Furthermore, poor visibility during dusk, dawn, or other low-light conditions can make it more challenging for drivers to spot pedestrians, particularly when street lighting is insufficient.

Community Role in Enhancing Road Safety

Authorities consistently urge both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws to prevent such tragedies. Drivers are reminded to be aware of their surroundings, especially in residential areas and near intersections, and to always yield to pedestrians. Pedestrians are encouraged to use marked crosswalks, obey traffic signals, and avoid distractions like mobile phones while crossing streets. The safety of Phoenix’s roadways is a shared responsibility, requiring consistent attention and adherence to safety protocols from everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about the recent pedestrian incidents in Phoenix:

What happened in North Phoenix on Monday night?

A pedestrian died on Monday night, January 12, 2026, after being involved in a suspected hit-and-run crash in North Phoenix, near the intersection of 35th Avenue and Thunderbird Road.

What time did the North Phoenix hit-and-run occur?

The fatal hit-and-run in North Phoenix occurred around 7:29 p.m. MST on Monday, January 12, 2026.

Was the driver apprehended in the North Phoenix hit-and-run?

A vehicle believed to be involved in the collision fled the scene, and police have not provided a description of the potential vehicle or any suspect involved.

How can I provide information about the North Phoenix hit-and-run?

Anyone with details regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Silent Witness at 480-948-6377 (English) or 480-837-8446 (Spanish).

What happened in central Phoenix on Monday morning?

A man was seriously injured after he was struck by a car in central Phoenix early Monday morning, January 12, 2026. [cite: original prompt text]

What is the man’s condition from the central Phoenix incident?

The man was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment, but his current condition has not been publicly updated. [cite: original prompt text]

Why are pedestrian accidents a concern in Phoenix?

Pedestrian accidents are a concern in Phoenix due to factors like wide intersections, heavy traffic flow, fast-moving vehicles, distracted driving, speeding, drivers failing to yield, and poor visibility in low-light conditions.

Key Features of Recent Pedestrian Incidents in Phoenix

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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX 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.