PHOENIX — An investigation is underway after a man was struck and killed while walking on Interstate 17 in Phoenix, officials said.
According to early reports, the crash happened around midnight on Thursday near I-17 and 19th Avenue. Witnesses told police that the man, who is unidentified at this time, had been running in and out of traffic when the crash happened.
The incident occurred when the pedestrian crossed the interstate and was hit by a vehicle in the #1 lane, Arizona DPS said. The pedestrian was then reportedly hit by four other vehicles, one of which, did not remain on scene.
Officials said the pedestrian died on the scene.
I-17 northbound was closed at 19th Avenue before police reopened the roadway later in the morning. Drivers experienced delays after the incident during rush hour.
This is a developing story. Stay with 12News for more updates.
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Deaths on Arizona roads
Data from the Arizona Department of Transportation shows that roadway fatalities have been gradually rising in Arizona over the last decade:
2011: 825 deaths
2012: 821 deaths
2013: 844 deaths
2014: 774 deaths
2015: 895 deaths
2016: 952 deaths
2017: 1,000 deaths
2018: 1,010 deaths
2019: 982 deaths
2020: 1,057 deaths
ADOT offers driving tips on its website 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
"Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, by calling 511, downloading the AZ 511 app and through ADOT’s Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT," the department said.