PHOENIX — A man is dead and a driver has been arrested after an alleged hit and run in central Phoenix, the city's police department said.
Phoenix police officers responded to the area of 16th Street and Camelback Road at about 12:30 a.m. on Sept. 21 regarding a crash that resulted in injuries, police said.
When they got to the scene, they found a man with serious injuries. The man, later identified as 29-year-old Dillon Mares, did not survive, police said.
Police said the man who was driving the car that hit Mares left the area before police got there, but left their car behind. The individual was later identified as 24-year-old Travis Smith.
Police say Smith contacted them and said he was the driver of the car that hit Mares and admitted to leaving the scene of the crash. He was later arrested and taken to a hospital to be treated for injuries he suffered in the crash. After being medically cleared, Smith was booked into the Maricopa County jail and is facing several charges, including manslaughter and leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death or a serious injury.
Police said their initial investigation shows that the car allegedly driven by Smith was headed south on 16th Street when it ran the red light at Camelback Road and hit a car being driven by Mares, which was headed west through the intersection.
Police said they are still investigating this crash.
Mares' family released a statement to 12News, which reads:
As you can imagine, we are experiencing a very devastating loss. Dillon was an exceptional soul. A rare gem. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, and grandson. He was a bright light that touched so many people and made an impact on so many lives throughout his short time here. His smile and his energy was contagious. He had a zest for life and only wanted to see people happy. He loved to make people laugh. There are no words that can express what we are experiencing at this moment. The continued love and support that is pouring in from all over the country, is overwhelming and a true testament to how many people loved him. We are beyond grateful to everyone and know that we are not alone in mourning.
The family has a GoFundMe open to help with funeral and travel expenses. If you would like to donate, click here.
>> This story will be updated as additional information becomes available. Stay with 12News for the latest.
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