Teen Injured in Traffic Accident at Tempe Intersection

Feb 8, 2025 at 6:44 PM

A tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning in Tempe, Arizona, leaving a 13-year-old boy hospitalized with severe injuries. The accident took place around 11 a.m. near the intersection of McClintock Drive and Watson Drive. According to local authorities, an elderly driver reportedly ran a red light, colliding with the young cyclist who was crossing the street. The teenager was immediately rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment. The driver remained at the scene, and law enforcement is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Additionally, the affected area has been temporarily closed off to traffic.

The event unfolded under clear skies on a typical Saturday morning. Eyewitnesses reported that traffic was moderate at the time. As the elderly gentleman approached the intersection from McClintock Drive, he failed to stop at the red light on Watson Drive. This critical error resulted in a collision with the young boy, who was using the designated crosswalk. The impact was significant, leading to serious injuries for the adolescent cyclist. First responders arrived promptly and provided immediate medical attention before transporting him to a nearby medical facility.

Local police have launched a thorough investigation into the incident. Authorities are reviewing traffic camera footage and gathering statements from witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events. They aim to determine if any factors, such as visibility or road conditions, contributed to the driver's failure to observe the traffic signal. Meanwhile, the closure of McClintock Drive between Southshore and Julie Drives has caused some disruption to local traffic flow. Residents and commuters are advised to seek alternative routes until further notice.

The community has rallied around the injured teen and his family during this challenging time. Neighbors and friends have expressed their support through social media platforms and local gatherings. The hope is that the young boy will recover fully and that this incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of road safety for all drivers and pedestrians alike.