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MESA, Maricopa County, Ariz., Nov. 2, 2026 — Two 18 year old women died early Sunday morning, November 1, after they were struck while crossing a street in Mesa. Mesa police said the crash happened near Center Street and Inglewood Street.
Officers were called to the area shortly before 1 a.m. on reports of a crash involving two pedestrians. Investigators said preliminary information indicates the two teens were crossing Center Street when they were hit by a car traveling southbound. The crash occurred in dark, rainy conditions with limited visibility.
The driver of that vehicle stopped at the scene and reportedly tried to warn other motorists approaching the area. Two more vehicles then came upon the scene and may have struck one of the women. One of the teens died at the scene. The other was taken to a hospital, where she died.
There is no evidence so far that speed or impairment played a role in the crash, and the drivers who have been identified are cooperating with the investigation. Investigators are still trying to locate a dark colored sedan that may have been a third vehicle involved. Anyone with information has been asked to call Mesa police.
We are deeply sorry for the losses suffered by the victims' families.
Intersection Safety in Arizona
The fatal crash was reported at Center Street and Inglewood Street in Mesa. Readers following crash news in Maricopa County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to Arizona intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does impairment usually factor into fatal crashes?
Alcohol or drug impairment is a common factor in fatal crashes nationally, but it must be confirmed by toxicology or investigators before it can be cited as a cause, as Mesa police noted was not yet evident here.
Where do fatal pedestrian crashes typically happen?
They frequently occur at intersections or mid-block crossings, especially in low light, bad weather, or where street lighting and visibility are limited, conditions police cited in this case.
What makes a crash more likely to turn fatal?
Higher vehicle speeds, poor visibility, lack of marked crossings, and multiple vehicles arriving at an active scene before it can be secured all raise the risk of additional injury or death.
How does speed affect whether someone survives being hit by a car?
Survivability drops sharply as a vehicle's speed increases on impact; pedestrians struck at lower speeds have much better odds of surviving than those hit at higher speeds.
