Phoenix, AZ (May 28, 2026) – One person died, and three others were injured in a three-vehicle crash Tuesday evening near 35th Avenue and Bell Road in Phoenix. Emergency units were called to the intersection after one of the vehicles caught fire following the collision.
Officials said crews extinguished the flames and extricated at least one occupant from a vehicle. A driver, identified as 28-year-old John David Segovia, was pronounced dead at the scene. Three adults traveling in a second vehicle were taken to a hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The driver of a third vehicle was not hurt and remained at the roadway.
According to a preliminary investigation, Segovia was traveling northbound on 35th Avenue at a high rate of speed when his vehicle collided with the second car. Police said the other drivers were evaluated for impairment, and no signs of impairment were observed.
Detectives continue to examine the factors that led to the fatal wreck. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of John David Segovia.
How Speed Can Increase the Severity of Multi-Vehicle Crashes
Speed is one of the most common factors associated with severe traffic collisions. As vehicle speed increases, drivers have less time to react to changing traffic conditions, and the force generated during a collision increases significantly.
Multi-vehicle crashes can occur when an initial impact pushes one vehicle into another or creates a chain reaction involving nearby traffic. Higher speeds may also increase the likelihood of vehicle fires, extensive damage, and occupant entrapment. Investigators often review physical evidence, vehicle damage, roadway conditions, and witness statements when determining whether speed contributed to a crash. Reducing speed in busy traffic corridors can help drivers maintain better control and improve their ability to avoid sudden hazards.
