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Tucson, AZ (January 9, 2026) – A tragic crash on Monday night claimed the lives of two young dirt bike riders following a collision with an SUV at a busy Tucson intersection, according to officials with the Tucson Police Department.
The deadly crash occurred on January 5 at the intersection of East 22nd Street and South Country Club Road. Investigators say an SSR Motorsports dirt bike was traveling east on 22nd Street when it collided with a Kia SUV that was making a left turn from westbound 22nd onto southbound Country Club.
The impact of the crash was fatal for both the rider and the passenger of the dirt bike. Authorities confirmed that neither individual was wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. The victims were later identified as 18-year-old E’Lyanha Nevaeh Valenzuela and 20-year-old Mickey Daniel Ortiz. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The occupants of the Kia SUV were uninjured, and police stated the driver was not suspected of impairment. Preliminary findings revealed that the dirt bike lacked a working headlamp, and the rider failed to yield while making the turn.
Authorities closed the intersection for several hours on Monday night as traffic investigators worked to document the scene and gather evidence. The Tucson Police Department confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of E’Lyanha Valenzuela and Mickey Ortiz during this incredibly difficult time.
