Tragic Loss: LD17 Candidate John McLean Dies in Car Accident

The Tucson Police Department announced on Friday that John McLean, a Democratic candidate for the state Senate, has died in a vehicle accident involving an impaired driver.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at 6 a.m. on Friday, where McLean, 68, was found deceased. The collision occurred as he was driving eastbound on Broadway Boulevard in a 2019 Toyota Rav4.

According to police, the other driver, 27-year-old Michael Martin Creel, was operating a 2018 Ford Explorer and failed to stop at a posted stop sign. Creel struck the passenger side of McLean’s vehicle. Officers are still investigating the speed at which the impact occurred.

Creel has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and aggravated drunken driving. He is currently being held in Pima County Jail.

At the time of his death, McLean was campaigning for Senate in Legislative District 17, trailing the Republican incumbent, Vince Leach.

Legislators from both parties have expressed their condolences. Leach remarked on McLean’s honorable conduct as a candidate, offering condolences to McLean’s family and friends. He described McLean as a positive influence in the community.

Rep. Consuelo Hernandez from Tucson remembered McLean as hopeful and personable, noting his dedication to connecting with volunteers. She stated, “What a loss. My condolences to his family.”

The Senate Democrats’ social media accounts echoed the sentiment of loss and gratitude for McLean’s commitment to improving Arizona, stating that he spent his final days fighting for a better future.