Phoenix, January 23, 2026
A vehicle collision in Phoenix resulted in two pedestrians being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident, which took place in the morning, is currently under investigation by authorities. The investigation aims to uncover the cause of the crash, including potential factors such as driver impairment and pedestrian actions. This event adds to a troubling pattern of pedestrian injuries in the Phoenix area, raising concerns about safety for vulnerable road users.
Phoenix
Two Pedestrians Seriously Injured in Morning Crash, Investigation Underway
A morning vehicle collision in Phoenix on Thursday, January 22, 2026, resulted in two pedestrians being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident occurred approximately 22 hours prior to recent reports, prompting an immediate and ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The crash left both individuals in critical condition, requiring urgent medical attention. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the identities of those involved or the precise location of the incident within Phoenix, beyond it being a morning event. The investigation is actively working to determine the cause of the collision and whether any factors, such as driver impairment, speed, or pedestrian actions, contributed to the incident.
Recent History of Pedestrian Incidents in Phoenix
This latest event adds to a series of serious pedestrian-involved crashes that have occurred across the Phoenix metropolitan area in recent months and years, highlighting ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety.
Other Significant Incidents
In a separate incident on Wednesday night, June 12, 2025, in west Phoenix, two individuals were also hospitalized with serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle. Just over a month later, on Sunday night, July 14, 2025, two women sustained serious injuries after being hit by separate vehicles near 111th and Grand Avenues in Youngtown, a community adjacent to Phoenix.
The region has also seen fatal pedestrian incidents. On November 29, 2025, a pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run crash within the Phoenix area. Earlier that year, on June 14, 2025, two separate overnight crashes tragically resulted in the deaths of two pedestrians in the Phoenix area. In one of these incidents, a man found suffering from serious injuries was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to them. A particularly tragic event occurred on December 13, 2024, when a father and son died after being hit by a car while on the shoulder of Loop 202 at the Elliot Road exit in Phoenix.
Understanding Pedestrian Safety Challenges
These recurring incidents underscore the significant challenges faced in ensuring pedestrian safety across the city. According to a 2022 City of Phoenix Traffic Collision Summary, there can be an under-reporting of crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists that result in less severe injuries. This suggests that the actual number of pedestrian-involved incidents might be higher than officially recorded, especially for those not resulting in severe or fatal outcomes. The summary also indicates patterns in when collisions typically occur, providing valuable data for safety initiatives.
Efforts to improve pedestrian safety often involve a combination of infrastructure improvements, public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Infrastructure enhancements might include better lighting, marked crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and separated pathways. Public awareness campaigns aim to educate both drivers and pedestrians on safe practices, such as avoiding distractions and obeying traffic signals.
The investigation into Thursday morning’s crash is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in understanding the full details of the incident. Community vigilance and adherence to traffic safety guidelines for both motorists and pedestrians remain crucial in preventing future tragedies on Phoenix roadways.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the most recent pedestrian crash in Phoenix occur?
The most recent pedestrian crash occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the morning.
How many pedestrians were injured in this crash?
Two pedestrians were hospitalized with serious injuries in the crash on January 22, 2026.
Is the investigation into the latest crash ongoing?
Yes, the investigation into the morning crash on January 22, 2026, is ongoing.
Have there been other significant pedestrian incidents in Phoenix recently?
Yes, there have been several other serious incidents, including two people injured on June 12, 2025, in west Phoenix, and two women seriously hurt in Youngtown on July 14, 2025. Fatal incidents also occurred on November 29, 2025, June 14, 2025, and December 13, 2024.
What are some factors contributing to pedestrian safety challenges in Phoenix?
Challenges include potential under-reporting of less severe injuries in pedestrian and bicyclist crashes, as noted in the 2022 City of Phoenix Traffic Collision Summary.
Summary of Recent Pedestrian Incidents in Phoenix Area
| Date | Location | Outcome | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 22, 2026 (morning) | Phoenix | 2 pedestrians seriously injured | Investigation ongoing |
| June 12, 2025 (Wednesday night) | West Phoenix | 2 people seriously injured | Reported |
| July 14, 2025 (Sunday night) | Youngtown (near 111th and Grand Avenues) | 2 women seriously injured | Reported |
| November 29, 2025 | Phoenix area | 1 pedestrian killed (hit-and-run) | Reported |
| June 14, 2025 | Phoenix area | 2 pedestrians killed (separate crashes) | Reported |
| December 13, 2024 | Loop 202 at Elliot Road exit, Phoenix | Father and son dead | Reported |
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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.
