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Phoenix, AZ (July 24, 2026) – A 21-year-old woman was arrested after allegedly causing a four-vehicle crash near 43rd Avenue and Bethany Home Road early on Thursday morning.
Police said officers received calls around 3:15 a.m. about multiple vehicles involved and reports that a person had been ejected. Preliminary information and witness statements indicated Briyanna Nicole Paz swerved into oncoming traffic before the vehicles collided.
Police said Paz showed signs of impairment, and open alcohol containers were found inside her vehicle. After field sobriety testing, she was taken into custody and booked into Maricopa County Jail on DUI charges.
Emergency units treated multiple people for injuries. One man was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. The review of the wreck remains ongoing, and our thoughts are with those hurt as they recover.
How Impaired Driving Can Increase Crash Risks
Alcohol impairment can affect a driver’s ability to make decisions, judge distance, and react quickly to changing traffic conditions. Even a small amount of alcohol can reduce attention and coordination, creating added dangers for everyone sharing the road.
After a suspected impaired driving accident, factors such as driver behavior, vehicle movement, and available evidence may help explain what happened. Open containers, witness accounts, and testing results can also provide information during reviews of suspected DUI-related crashes. Safe driving choices and avoiding alcohol behind the wheel can help prevent serious roadway injuries.
