PHOENIX — A Phoenix Police Department officer was killed in a vehicle collision overnight, department Chief Jeri Williams said in a press conference.
The officer was identified as 27-year-old Ginarro New, the department said. The crash happened around 10:45 p.m. near the intersection of Cave Creek Road and Greenway Parkway on May 31.
Officer New was driving his fully marked patrol vehicle through the intersection when his vehicle was struck by a car that ran a red light going eastbound, police said. The crash sent New's vehicle through a block wall and into the parking lot on the southeast corner of the intersection.
The driver in the other vehicle was also reported dead by the department. Police released his identity on Tuesday afternoon, 31-year-old Christopher Castro. Phoenix PD said speed and impairment with the driver "are believed to be contributing factors" to the crash.
The officer was transported to a local hospital after the crash, police said. A procession of other officers was held to escort the officer's body from the hospital to the medical examiner's office after the officer was pronounced dead.
The officer had served with the department at the Black Mountain precinct since July 2019, Chief Williams said.
The investigation is ongoing.
This is a developing story. Tune into 12 News for the latest information.
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