PHOENIX — Two teenagers died in a car crash in north Phoenix on Tuesday that also knocked down powerlines and forced road closures.
The crash happened near 35th Avenue and Thunderbird Road around 2:30 p.m., according to the Phoenix Police Department.
For reasons that are still under investigation, multiple cars collided with each other, killing two teens and sending another to the hospital.
The driver of the car was set to turn 18-years-old at the end of March, the family told 12 News. The accident happened about half a mile from his home they said.
Police have identified the two teens as Aron Heeley and Payton Sharp, both 17.
“They pass me, and I was like, ‘Wow that is crazy, I just had a brush of danger,’ and then I look over and they are in the wall,” said Tyler Guerrero who was crossing the intersection on his way to work when the red car involved in the crash sped by, almost hitting him.
Video from Sky 12 shows the mangled wreckage of a red car that careened into a power pole and brick wall. A white sedan was also seen in the area.
People that live in the area said they heard a loud boom and rushed to render aid, some even took fire extinguishers.
“I ran over to the car to see if anyone in there could talk. I looked inside and didn’t like what I saw,” said Martin Gannon. “I saw the transformer was moved at least three or four feet.”
The cause of the accident is still under investigation.
“They were going really fast, fast enough you could tell it wasn’t normal speed,” said Guerrero. “Take your time, that’s the takeaway I get, you don’t have to be in a rush.”
The person sent to the hospital is expected to survive, according to police.
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Driving Safety Tips:
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) offers driving tips to help keep people safe on the road.
"There’s always room for improvement when it comes to road safety," the department said on its website.
ADOT's suggestions include:
- Don’t speed or drive aggressively
- Never drive while under the influence of substances
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are doing the same
- When an emergency vehicle is on the side of the road, move over
- Stay extra aware in work zones
- Be prepared for weather conditions that make driving dangerous