Surprise, AZ (September 1, 2025) – A 20-year-old motorcyclist was killed Friday afternoon in a devastating crash near the intersection of Bell Rd and Dysart Rd in Surprise. Officials with the Surprise Police Department have identified the deceased as Richard Peña.
The crash occurred just before 1 p.m. when Peña, who was operating a motorcycle, collided with a vehicle that was attempting to make a left-hand turn. According to investigators, the vehicle—driven by an 80-year-old woman—failed to yield the right of way as she turned, causing Peña’s motorcycle to strike the passenger side of her car.
Peña sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported by emergency medical teams to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle was not injured, and no other parties were reported to be involved.
Surprise Police closed the intersection for several hours to conduct a full crash reconstruction and to gather witness statements. The cause remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet confirmed whether charges will be filed.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Richard Peña during this tragic time.
Motorcycle Fatalities and Left-Turn Collisions in Arizona
Motorcycle accidents involving left-turning vehicles are among the most common and deadly types of collisions for riders. Tragically, Richard Peña’s death is a reminder of how quickly a preventable error at a busy intersection can result in irreversible consequences. Bell Rd and Dysart Rd are high-traffic corridors in the Surprise area, frequented by both commuter vehicles and motorcycles, making defensive driving at intersections especially critical.
In many of these collisions, the turning driver fails to properly gauge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle—or fails to see the rider at all. Because motorcyclists lack the protective barriers afforded to drivers in enclosed vehicles, crashes involving even moderate impact can be fatal.
Arizona has long ranked among the states with the highest rate of motorcycle fatalities. Age-related driving factors, visibility issues, and misjudged timing often contribute to crashes like the one that claimed Peña’s life. Authorities continue to promote awareness campaigns reminding all drivers to “look twice” at intersections and yield properly before executing left turns.
When fatal crashes like this occur, families are often left dealing with not just grief, but complex legal and financial challenges. Medical bills, funeral arrangements, and unanswered questions can add immense strain to an already heartbreaking situation.
At Local Accident Reports, we work to support families and victims impacted by serious traffic accidents. Whether you’re looking for compassionate resources, legal clarity, or help understanding your next steps, our platform exists to guide you through the process. If your family has been affected by a motorcycle collision, we are here to help you seek answers—and find support.
