News Summary
This past weekend in Phoenix, two separate traffic incidents resulted in the loss of two lives. A pedestrian, Bilgee Elamin, was fatally struck by a vehicle, and a two-vehicle crash claimed the life of driver Hayley Kramer. These tragedies emphasize the pressing issue of road safety in the city, prompting calls for improved measures to protect both pedestrians and drivers.
Phoenix – Two traffic incidents in Phoenix this past weekend resulted in two fatalities: one involving a pedestrian and the other a driver. The events have highlighted ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the city.
Peadestrian Fatality Incident
In the first incident, a 24-year-old woman named Bilgee Elamin was pronounced dead after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the road mid-block on June 30. The collision occurred around 2:15 a.m., near the intersection of 27th Avenue and Camelback Road. Following the accident, Elamin was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries the next day.
The driver involved, identified as Deanna Shugart, 45, was arrested at the scene. Reports indicate that Shugart showed signs of impairment during a police evaluation. Preliminary investigations suggest that Shugart’s minivan was traveling northbound on 27th Avenue when it hit Elamin, who was crossing outside of a designated crosswalk.
Shugart has since been processed for DUI and booked on narcotics violations. Authorities have stated that a decision on charges will be made once the investigation into the incident is complete.
Second Fatality From Two-Vehicle Crash
In a separate incident, a woman lost her life as a result of a two-vehicle crash that took place on the evening of June 29. The accident occurred near 43rd Avenue and Aster Drive, just south of Sweetwater Avenue. Emergency responders reported discovering several injured passengers at the scene, including three adults and two children, all of whom were transported to the hospital.
The deceased driver has been identified as Hayley Kramer, 34 years old. Reports indicate that the other driver involved in the collision, as well as both children, are expected to recover from their injuries. Preliminary information reveals that the other driver veered into southbound lanes, resulting in a crash with Kramer’s vehicle. At this time, authorities do not believe impairment was a factor in this incident.
Investigation Ongoing
Officers have closed 43rd Avenue between Sweetwater Avenue and Cactus Road to conduct their investigation into the two-vehicle crash. As with the first incident, further details are awaited as investigations continue.
Background
Traffic safety is a growing concern in Phoenix, with both incidents driving attention to the challenges faced by pedestrians and drivers alike. Fatalities resulting from road accidents can have long-lasting impacts on families and the wider community. With ongoing investigations into these recent incidents, city officials and advocates are calling for enhanced measures to ensure safer roads for all users.
Authorities are reminding the public to remain vigilant and adhere to laws designed to promote safety on the roads.
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Additional Resources
- AZ Family: 1 Dead, 4 Injured in Crash
- Wikipedia: Traffic Safety
- Fox10 Phoenix: Fiance Mourns Woman Killed in Crash
- Google Search: Phoenix traffic accidents
- KTAR: Woman Killed in Collision
- Google Scholar: Traffic Fatalities Phoenix
- AZ Central: I-17 Closure Due to Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Safety
- KTAR: Fatal Collision in Phoenix
- Google News: Traffic Safety Phoenix
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.
