Tonopah, AZ (March 3, 2025) – A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 10 west of Phoenix claimed the lives of four people and left eight others injured on Saturday afternoon, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The crash occurred around 1 p.m. on eastbound I-10, approximately 14 miles west of Tonopah. The wreck involved six commercial motor vehicles, four passenger vehicles, a van, and a recreational vehicle towing a trailer. Authorities initially reported six fatalities and 13 injuries but revised those numbers Sunday after further investigation.
According to DPS, two of the injured victims remain in critical condition and are receiving life-saving treatment. One person has been admitted for precautionary care, while five others were treated and released from various hospitals across the Valley area.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the crash, with initial reports suggesting that blowing dust may have been a contributing factor. The Arizona Highway Patrol is conducting a detailed investigation, as the chain-reaction collision involved multiple impacts, resulting in additional injuries and fatalities.
The eastbound lanes of I-10 were closed for an extended period but reopened early Sunday morning. DPS continues to work on notifying the families of those involved and urges anyone with information about the crash to come forward.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes and Highway Safety in Arizona
High-speed interstate crashes involving multiple vehicles often result in severe injuries and fatalities, especially when commercial trucks are involved. Arizona’s long stretches of desert highways can create hazardous driving conditions due to sudden dust storms, reducing visibility and increasing the likelihood of chain-reaction collisions.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), visibility-related crashes, such as those caused by dust or fog, are particularly dangerous due to the high risk of secondary impacts. Drivers traveling through Arizona’s highways are urged to reduce speed during dust storms, use headlights, and pull over if visibility drops significantly.
For victims and families dealing with the aftermath of such tragic accidents, legal guidance can be essential in understanding their rights and options. Compensation may be available to cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages resulting from the crash.
The aftermath of a catastrophic accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Local Accident Reports connects victims and their families with professionals who can offer support and legal guidance. If you or someone you know has been affected by a major collision, reach out today to learn more about your options.