When it comes to traffic-related subjects, Arizona is an overachiever and not in a positive way. Recent national studies have shown that our state ranks number one in pedestrian fatalities. In the first half of 2017, Arizona had 1.61 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 people.
Another study ranks Arizona at number five for the highest rate of fatal hit and run crashes. Traffic deaths in Arizona continue to increase, year after year. Arizona has seen a considerable spike our population, ranking as the fifth fastest growing state in the U.S. at the end of 2017.
An increased population means more cars, motorcycles, pedestrians, and bicyclists on our roads. Arizona still lacks a comprehensive distracted driving law, despite our population growth. More cars, with distracted drivers at the wheel, spells disaster for Arizona.
We are sad to see that a motorcycle crash that happened Sunday in Tucson has now turned fatal.
A motorcyclist who was injured when a driver ran a red light at a midtown intersection died from his injuries, police said.
Jeremy Bowley, 26, died yesterday morning after the crash around 9:20 p.m. Sunday near the intersection of North Campbell Avenue and East Roger Road, according to a news release from the Tucson Police Department.
Bowley was riding a motorcycle westbound on Roger Road and turned left to head south on Campbell Avenue. A driver in a 2004 Ford Mustang was headed northbound on Campbell Avenue and failed to stop for the red light at Roger Road. The Mustang struck Bowley, who was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Bowley was taken to Banner University Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
Police said it appears speed and failure to yield were factors in the collision. Police are still investigating whether impairment also was a factor. No citations or arrests have been made.
The driver of the Mustang was not injured in the wreck.
Our deepest condolences go to the family of Jeremy Bowley. Please drive safely.
