Phoenix, AZ (May 17, 2026) – A woman died early Saturday morning, May 16, after being struck by multiple vehicles while crossing a Valley freeway, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
The crash occurred around 2:30 a.m. near Northern Avenue on State Route 303 in Phoenix. Officials said the woman was crossing the southbound lanes of the freeway when she was struck by a white pickup truck and then hit by two additional vehicles.
Authorities identified the victim as 52-year-old Valerie Theresa Chesnut of Goodyear. Emergency units responded to the scene, but she did not survive her injuries.
DPS stated that a white heavy-duty, dual-axle pickup truck towing a car-hauler trailer may have been involved in the crash. Investigators are working to locate the vehicle, which was believed to be traveling in the direction of California at the time.
The DPS Vehicular Crimes Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Valerie Theresa Chesnut.
Why Freeway Pedestrian Crashes Often Turn Fatal
Pedestrian crashes on freeways are especially dangerous due to high speeds and limited stopping distances. Vehicles traveling at highway speeds may not have enough time to react when a person is on the roadway, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced.
In multi-impact incidents, pedestrians can be struck by more than one vehicle, which significantly increases the severity of injuries. Investigators typically review traffic speed, lighting conditions, and vehicle movement patterns to understand how the crash occurred. Freeway crossings also present extreme risks due to multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic and limited safe crossing points.
