Phoenix, AZ (August 18, 2025) – A devastating traffic incident occurred late Sunday night near West McDowell Road in Phoenix, where a person crawled out of an SUV and was subsequently struck and run over multiple times by another vehicle, according to Phoenix Metro Area Fire dispatch.
The incident was reported at approximately 11:12 p.m., with Engine 28 and other emergency units responding to a scene described as extremely serious and chaotic. Witnesses reported that the person had exited or fallen from an SUV—possibly after a collision—and was then struck by an oncoming vehicle. Disturbingly, the caller stated the victim was run over at least three times before the other vehicle left or came to a stop.
Fire and rescue crews arrived promptly to assess and assist the victim, whose condition has not yet been officially released. Given the severity of the description, life-threatening injuries are presumed. It’s also unclear whether the striking vehicle remained at the scene or whether a hit-and-run occurred.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash, including how the SUV became disabled and whether the striking vehicle had any opportunity to avoid the pedestrian.
Our hearts go out to the individual injured in this horrific incident, and we sincerely hope for a full recovery.
Pedestrian-Vehicle Incidents on Phoenix Roadways
The late-night crash on W McDowell Rd highlights a disturbing and tragic reality in Phoenix: pedestrian-involved collisions—especially those occurring after a crash or vehicle breakdown—remain among the most dangerous and fatal types of roadway incidents.
In this case, the individual appeared to have exited or crawled out of an SUV before being struck. These scenarios are often chaotic and confusing, and visibility is typically limited—particularly at night. When a person is low to the ground and not within a vehicle’s direct sightline, the risk of secondary impact is incredibly high.
Phoenix sees a higher-than-average rate of pedestrian fatalities, especially in cases where individuals are outside vehicles near freeways or main corridors. The combination of poor lighting, driver inattention, and speed creates a deadly mix. Events like this underscore the need for both driver awareness and improved infrastructure—such as lighting, signage, and safe pull-off areas—along busy roadways.
Emergency responders play a critical role in stabilizing victims and securing scenes where trauma is severe, and their quick arrival may have made a critical difference in this case. However, prevention remains the ultimate goal.
Drivers are urged to remain vigilant—particularly at night—and be prepared for unexpected obstacles or people on or near the roadway. If your vehicle becomes disabled, it’s critical to remain inside with hazard lights on if it is safe to do so, or move cautiously to a safe zone off the roadway and away from traffic.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a traffic incident in Phoenix, Local Accident Reports is here to provide timely updates, helpful guidance, and access to local support. Let us help you through the difficult aftermath and connect you with the resources needed to begin recovery.
