Tragic Loss: Democratic Senate Hopeful John McLean Fatally Struck by Drunk Driver

In a tragic incident, John McLean, a Democratic candidate for the Arizona state Senate, died in a traffic collision near Broadway and Houghton Road on Friday morning. McLean, 68, was driving eastbound when another vehicle, which was traveling northbound, ran a stop sign and collided with his car, according to Tucson Police Department officials.

McLean, who had a background as an executive for a defense contractor, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the northbound vehicle, 27-year-old Michael Martin Creel, was reportedly impaired and is now facing serious charges, including manslaughter and aggravated DUI.

This fatal incident marks the 82nd traffic-related death in Tucson for 2023, a grim statistic that includes 27 individuals in vehicles, 29 pedestrians, 7 cyclists, and 19 motorcyclists. In total, 89 people had lost their lives in similar incidents by this time last year.

Authorities confirmed that McLean was driving a 2019 Toyota Rav4, while Creel was at the wheel of a 2018 Ford Explorer. Investigators noted that the roadway before the intersection was straight, and a “stop ahead” sign was clearly in place prior to Broadway.

The collision occurred when Creel failed to stop at the intersection, striking McLean’s vehicle on the passenger side. TPD’s Impaired Driver Enforcement Unit evaluated Creel and found him impaired at the time of the accident, leading to his arrest and booking at the Pima County Jail.

Under Arizona law, manslaughter is classified as a Class 2 felony, which can carry a sentence of 7 to 21 years for a first offense. Aggravated DUI is a Class 6 felony, with mandatory minimum sentences starting at four months in prison, especially for repeat offenders or those driving with a suspended license.

Creel has a history of legal issues, including a DUI conviction from April 2022 and other prior charges. Current investigations cite speed and impairment as contributing factors to the crash.

McLean was a notable figure in his community, narrowly losing a tightly contested race in the heavily Republican 17th Legislative District. His opponent, former state senator Vince Leach, expressed condolences, emphasizing McLean’s impact as a leader and his contributions to the community.

Originally from Phoenix, McLean earned a degree from the University of Arizona and went on to receive a Ph.D. from the University of California. He had served as CEO of Areté Associates, a contractor for the Defense Department, and was involved in dog rescue efforts.

State Senator Priya Sundareshan lamented the loss, describing McLean as a cheerful, committed candidate who wished to impact his community positively. The Arizona Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee also praised McLean for embodying the qualities of a great leader dedicated to public service.

McLean had recently shared that upon retiring, he embraced the opportunity to adopt a puppy, reflecting a life deeply engaged in community service. His passing leaves a significant void in Tucson’s civic landscape.