‘Possible Impairment Under Investigation in Head-On Collision on Highway 238’

Life Hazard tape surrounds a white sedan involved in a severe head-on collision on State Route 238, just east of North Roosevelt Avenue, on July 23, 2024. The crash hospitalized four individuals, with authorities suspecting drugs or alcohol might have contributed to the incident.

Maricopa police and fire departments responded to the accident scene at approximately 7:30 p.m. The collision caused one of the vehicles to crash into an electrical box, resulting in a power outage for over 1,000 residents for several hours.

According to MPD spokesperson Monica Williams, only two of the hospitalized individuals were wearing seatbelts. “We would like to remind the community that seatbelts can save lives, so we always advocate for people to wear them,” Williams emphasized.

The crash required the extrication of one person from a vehicle, with the youngest individual involved being just 18 years old. “All were transported to a Valley hospital for treatment,” Williams confirmed, noting that the injuries were non-life-threatening and that speed played a role in the incident. She also mentioned that impairment is suspected as a possible factor.

At around 9:30 p.m., reporters observed a red SUV and a white sedan with significant front-end damage. The white sedan was marked with red and white “LIFE HAZARD” tape. The road remained closed until approximately 1:45 a.m. the following morning.

“This incident is still under investigation,” Williams stated.

Brian Petersheim Jr., who reported the incident, began working with InMaricopa in October 2020 as a multimedia intern. After graduating from Maricopa High School in 2021, Brian transitioned into a full-time role, focusing on public safety stories. Currently, he is pursuing his studies at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.