Phoenix, AZ (June 22, 2026) – A late-night collision near 19th Avenue and Beardsley Road left a pregnant woman and her newborn dead on Saturday, June 20. The two-car accident happened around 11:30 p.m. in north Phoenix, just off Loop 101.
Emergency units took the woman to a nearby hospital, where medical staff delivered the baby. Both the mother and newborn later died at the hospital.
Investigators said the driver traveling with the pregnant woman is believed to have run a red light before striking another vehicle heading east on Beardsley Road. That driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while the other motorist was not hurt.
Impairment is not believed to have contributed to the wreck. No charges had been announced in the initial report, and additional names were not released. The case remains active as investigators review witness accounts and other evidence.
We extend our sincere condolences to the mother’s family and all who are mourning this devastating loss, and wish the injured driver a speedy recovery.
Why Red-Light Crashes Can Be Especially Severe at Night
Red-light crashes can be dangerous because vehicles usually enter an intersection from different directions. When one driver continues through a signal, another motorist may have little time to brake or steer away.
Nighttime travel can be an added risk. Darkness may make it harder to judge speed, distance, and lane movement. Even lighted intersections can be harder to read when drivers are tired or distracted.
Pregnant passengers may face added medical concerns after a serious roadway accident. Doctors may need to check both the mother and baby, even when injuries are not clear right away. Hospital teams frequently look for trauma, bleeding, and signs of distress that may not be visible at first.
