Phoenix, AZ (May 19, 2026) – A violent crash left one man with critical injuries and shut down a major intersection in Phoenix’s Maryvale area on Tuesday, May 19, in the morning.
The collision occurred around 9:00 a.m. at 75th Avenue and Indian School Road. Emergency units arrived to find significant damage to two vehicles: a truck with front-end damage stopped in the intersection, and another vehicle that had struck a utility pole and sustained heavy damage.
Phoenix police said a man was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries following the crash. Detectives responded to the scene to begin an investigation, and the intersection was closed in all directions as crews worked to secure the area. Officials did not provide an estimated reopening time.
Authorities stated that impairment is not believed to be a factor in the collision. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
Why Intersection Crashes Can Cause Severe Injuries
High-traffic intersections often carry an increased risk of serious crashes due to multiple lanes of crossing and turning vehicles. When drivers misjudge timing or speed, the impact can be significant, especially on busy arterial roads.
Crashes involving utility poles can create additional hazards, including electrical damage and secondary impacts from sudden stops. Investigators typically examine vehicle positioning, signal timing, and roadway conditions to determine how the collision occurred. Even in cases where impairment is not suspected, speed and reaction time often play a major role in severe intersection crashes.