Good Samaritan Loses Life in Tragic Arizona Freeway Crash at Dawn

PHOENIX — A tragic series of crashes on Sunday morning resulted in the death of a good Samaritan who stopped to assist after an initial accident on the Loop 202 near 40th Street.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that the first incident occurred around 5:20 a.m. A westbound driver lost control of a Dodge Durango, hitting the median wall before spinning around and blocking the center lane, facing against traffic.

In a commendable act, the woman exited her vehicle with hazard lights on to check for injuries. Unfortunately, as she approached the Durango, another driver swerved to avoid the overturned vehicle and struck her. Despite being transported to a hospital, she succumbed to her injuries.

Authorities clarified that a total of seven vehicles were involved in five separate collisions stemming from the initial crash. The second crash involved the good Samaritan, while a subsequent incident occurred when a tire dislodged from the Durango, causing another vehicle to veer off course. Fortunately, no one was injured in that instance.

Further complications arose when another vehicle collided with the disabled Durango; however, that driver remained on the scene and reported no injuries. The final crash involved three vehicles, leading to one driver being arrested for DUI.

DPS noted that impairment appears to be a factor in these incidents, and the vehicle crimes unit is currently investigating. Additionally, troopers are seeking the driver of the Dodge Durango, who fled the scene before the good Samaritan was struck.

The westbound lanes of SR 202 experienced closures but reopened by 11:06 a.m. This is a developing story, and further details will be provided as more information becomes available.