Tempe, AZ (February 18, 2026) – One person was hospitalized on Tuesday morning following a rear-end crash at the intersection of University Drive and McClintock Drive in Tempe. The collision occurred Tuesday, February 17, just before 8 a.m., according to Tempe Police. Authorities say the crash involved two vehicles and resulted in a temporary road closure.
Key Details
- Location: University Dr and McClintock Dr, Tempe
- Reported: February 17, just before 8 a.m.
- Type: Rear-end collision with rollover
- Injuries: One driver was transported to the hospital
- Road Impact: McClintock Drive was closed south of University Drive until just before 9 a.m.
- Investigation: Suspected DUI under review
What We Know So Far
- Police say a driver failed to stop for a red light at the intersection.
- The vehicle struck the rear of another car that was stopped at the light.
- The impact caused the striking vehicle to roll over.
- Emergency crews evaluated those involved at the scene.
- The driver of the vehicle that rolled over was transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
- Authorities temporarily closed McClintock Dr south of University Dr during the investigation and cleanup.
- Tempe Police indicated the at-fault driver was suspected of DUI.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The identities of those involved.
- The extent of the hospitalized driver’s injuries.
- Whether formal charges have been filed.
Local Context
Busy intersections like University Dr and McClintock Dr see steady morning commuter traffic, particularly during school and work rush hours. In Tempe, when a rollover crash occurs at a signalized intersection, officers typically secure multiple lanes to allow paramedics to assess injuries and investigators to document vehicle positions. Rear-end collisions at red lights can become more severe when speed or impairment is suspected. Temporary closures are common while debris is cleared and vehicles are removed, especially when a rollover blocks travel lanes.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries; call 911 when emergency care is needed.
- Stay on scene and follow instructions from responding officers and firefighters.
- If it is safe, take photos of vehicle positions, traffic signals, and visible damage.
- Seek medical evaluation if you experience pain, dizziness, or other symptoms after the crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why can symptoms show up later after an accident?
A: Adrenaline can mask pain immediately after a crash, and some injuries may not become noticeable until hours later.
Q: Why do rear-end accidents happen at traffic lights?
A: They often occur when drivers fail to stop in time due to distraction, speed, or impairment.
Q: What does it mean when DUI is suspected?
A: It means officers believe impairment may have played a role and are conducting tests and reviewing evidence to determine whether charges are appropriate.
