Payson, AZ (May 28, 2025) – A violent four-vehicle collision on State Route 260 near milepost 254 east of Tyler Parkway resulted in multiple injuries on Wednesday afternoon, with three victims flown to Valley hospitals in critical condition, according to local authorities.
The crash occurred around 4:10 PM when one vehicle crossed the centerline and struck another head-on, according to the Payson Police Department. A third vehicle was unable to stop in time and collided with the first two, while a fourth vehicle was damaged by flying debris. The collision triggered a large-scale emergency response involving extrication, air medical transport, and advanced trauma care.
Payson Fire Department confirmed that three individuals sustained serious to life-threatening injuries and were airlifted from the scene. One of them had gone into cardiac arrest but was successfully resuscitated through CPR before being flown out for treatment. Two other individuals suffered moderate injuries and were transported to Banner Payson Medical Center. Four additional people involved in the crash were evaluated and determined to be uninjured.
Two patients had to be extricated from their vehicles due to extensive damage, requiring specialized rescue efforts from firefighters and paramedics.
The highway was completely shut down for approximately two hours as emergency personnel cleared the wreckage and investigated the scene. The Gila County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the roadway was reopened to traffic by around 6:00 PM.
Detectives are actively investigating whether impairment contributed to the crash. In a public statement, the Payson Police Department also noted that the failure to wear seat belts may have worsened the severity of injuries. The crash occurred during Arizona’s “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign, which runs through June 1.
We extend our thoughts and best wishes for healing to all those affected by this devastating collision, especially those still hospitalized in critical condition.
Head-On Collisions and Multi-Vehicle Crashes in Arizona
The collision on SR-260 is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that can unfold in a matter of seconds on Arizona’s highways. When one vehicle crosses the centerline—as it did in this case—the resulting head-on impact is often catastrophic, especially at highway speeds.
The cascading chain of impacts in this crash, where a third vehicle struck the initial collision and a fourth was damaged by debris, illustrates how quickly a single moment of driver error can involve multiple cars and endanger numerous lives.
The fact that three individuals required air medical evacuation reflects the high level of trauma involved, and the cardiac arrest of one patient underscores just how close this event came to turning even more tragic. Thanks to the rapid and skilled response by Payson Fire Department crews, including the successful CPR effort, lives were likely saved on the scene.
This incident also reinforces a critical safety truth: seat belt usage saves lives. Authorities believe the severity of several injuries in this case may have been reduced had all occupants been properly restrained. As the “Click It or Ticket” campaign continues across Arizona, law enforcement agencies are reminding drivers and passengers alike to buckle up every time, on every trip.
If you or someone you care about was injured in this SR-260 crash or a similar serious collision, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care and professional support to navigate recovery and insurance matters.
Highway crashes can leave deep scars, but no one should face recovery alone. At Local Accident Reports, we connect crash victims with trusted trauma care providers, legal resources, and recovery services to help ease the burden. Reach out today to begin your healing process with a dedicated support system by your side.
