A fatal multi-vehicle collision on northbound I-17 just north of Northern Avenue occurred early Sunday morning, claiming one life and leaving two others critically injured.
The incident took place at approximately 1:30 AM. According to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Metro Central District Sergeant on scene, the crash involved three vehicles. Tragically, one male occupant was ejected from his vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene.
Two other individuals, a male and a female, were critically injured and transported to a local trauma center. Their conditions remain serious.
An adult male driver involved in the collision has been detained by DPS. He is undergoing field sobriety tests and a blood draw in a DPS DUI mobile processing van on scene. Impairment is suspected, though it will not be confirmed until all tests are completed.
As a result of the collision, the northbound lanes of I-17 are closed at Northern Avenue. Traffic is being diverted off the interstate at Northern Avenue and can re-enter at Dunlap Avenue. The closure is expected to last for several hours as DPS Vehicular Crimes Detectives investigate the incident.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety urges drivers to exercise caution, particularly in the vicinity of the crash site, to ensure the safety of emergency personnel working on the scene.