Tragic Mesa Crash Claims Lives of 8-Year-Old Girl and Her Father

Mesa police reported that a stolen vehicle from Gilbert was linked to a devastating crash that claimed the lives of three people and injured a child.

The tragic incident occurred on Monday morning at the intersection of Val Vista Drive and Southern Avenue. Authorities confirmed that a Ford F250, taken earlier that day, was traveling northbound when it crossed the center line, colliding head-on with a Nissan Armada.

The driver of the Ford, a 29-year-old man, died at the scene. His identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the Nissan, 42-year-old Troy Garlock, also died at the scene, leaving behind a grieving family.

Two of Garlock’s daughters, identified as Elsie, 8, and Mabel, 6, were in the backseat during the crash. Elsie later succumbed to her injuries, while Mabel remains hospitalized for treatment. The third vehicle involved sustained minor injuries.

A GoFundMe page established by Garlock’s family expressed their heartbreak over the loss of a devoted father to nine children. The post described Elsie as a joyous presence who illuminated the lives of those around her. Family members remarked that this tragedy has left an irreplaceable void.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and authorities anticipate potential traffic restrictions along Val Vista Drive between Southern and Hampton avenues as they gather more information. No further details regarding the incident have been released at this time.