Teen hospitalized in 'critical condition' following I-10 crash in Avondale

AVONDALE, Ariz. — A critical motorcycle accident on Interstate 10 left a 17-year-old hospitalized on Tuesday. The incident occurred near milepost 132 in the westbound lanes, close to Avondale Boulevard, as reported by the Avondale Fire Department.

Initial investigations suggest the motorcycle collided with the rear of a semi-truck trailer. The young rider was promptly transported to a hospital for urgent medical care.

Prior to the crash, a state trooper attempted to stop the motorcyclist for speeding but chose not to pursue due to prevailing traffic conditions, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Motorists can anticipate potential traffic delays on I-10 in the vicinity of the incident.

In other local news, the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, frequently referred to as “The Valley,” represents the largest metropolitan region in the Southwest. It encompasses several significant cities such as Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale, and many more, collectively housing a population of nearly 4.85 million people as of the 2020 Census.

Maricopa County, which is part of this vast metropolitan area, ranks as the fourth largest county in the United States by population. It holds approximately 4.49 million residents and covers an area of 9,224 square miles — larger than seven U.S. states.

The county is notable for its extensive park system, boasting around 120,000 acres of open space, trails, nature centers, and campgrounds. Phoenix serves as the county seat and state capital, further solidifying its significance within Arizona. The county’s name is derived from the Maricopa Native American Tribe.