Early-morning collision near Rio Salado Parkway
Tempe police say a woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after an early-morning crash Thursday that injured a young passenger. The collision occurred shortly before 5 a.m. near Scottsdale Road and Rio Salado Parkway, authorities said.
First responders arriving at the scene found a damaged SUV with two people inside. Police arrested the woman they believe was driving; a 12-year-old passenger was taken to a hospital with what officers described as "
non-life-threatening injuries." Investigators have not disclosed whether the driver and the child are related.
Traffic impacts and ongoing investigation
Tempe police closed the westbound lanes of Rio Salado Parkway for about three hours while emergency crews worked the scene. Those lanes have since reopened, but the department said the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
- Time: Shortly before 5 a.m.
- Location: Scottsdale Road and Rio Salado Parkway (westbound lanes)
- Injuries: One 12-year-old transported with non-life-threatening injuries
- Arrest: Woman taken into custody on suspicion of DUI
| Detail | Report |
|---|---|
| Response | First responders found two people in the damaged SUV |
| Road closure | Westbound Rio Salado closed ~3 hours; reopened |
| Investigation | Active; cause not yet released |
Crashes involving suspected impaired driving remain a persistent public-safety concern across the Phoenix area. For Tempe drivers and families, the incident is a reminder of the potential consequences of impaired driving and the strain such crashes place on emergency resources and local traffic arteries during morning commutes.
Tempe police are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information or photos related to the crash has been encouraged by local outlets to share them with investigators.
The city did not release additional details about the driver's identity, any charges filed or the current condition of the injured child beyond the description of their injuries as non-life-threatening.
