Phoenix, AZ (June 10, 2026) – One person died, and two others were injured on Tuesday morning, June 9, after a multi-car crash near 27th Avenue and Indian School Road in west Phoenix.
The accident happened around 11:45 a.m. The police said one driver had critical injuries when emergency units arrived. Paramedics brought that driver to a hospital, where he died a short time later. He was identified as 60-year-old Richard Lovato.
Another driver and a pedestrian were also hospitalized. Their injuries were described as not life-threatening. Officials said 48-year-old Lee Simmons Jr. was driving east on Indian School Road when he failed to stop at the red light at 27th Avenue. His vehicle struck two stopped vehicles, pushing them into the intersection, where they collided with other southbound vehicles.
The pedestrian was hurt when struck by a vehicle or crash debris. Simmons was detained at the site on suspicion of impaired driving and later booked on several charges. At least six vehicles were damaged across the intersection. The circumstances surrounding the fatal wreck remain under review.
We extend our sincere condolences to Lovato’s family and loved ones, and we hope the others hurt recover.
Red-Light Crashes Can Trigger Multi-Vehicle Chain Reactions
Red-light crashes at busy intersections can quickly involve more than the first vehicles hit. When stopped vehicles are pushed forward, they may enter crossing traffic and create a chain reaction.
Multi-car crashes may also place pedestrians at risk. A person walking nearby may be struck by a vehicle that is forced out of position or by debris from the collision.
Investigators may review signal timing, travel direction, speed, impairment concerns, vehicle damage, and where each vehicle came to rest. In crashes involving several vehicles, it can take time to confirm the full sequence. Early reports usually focus first on who was hurt, how many vehicles were involved, and whether any driver was detained.
