CHANDLER, Ariz. — A driver was arrested Monday after authorities said he struck and killed a pedestrian walking along Loop 202 in Chandler.
The collision happened early Monday morning on the eastbound 202 near Price Road, according to the Department of Public Safety.
Officials said a Chandler police officer responding to the crash saw that the victim's SUV had crashed into the right barrier wall. The officer saw the driver of the SUV, 23-year-old Imari Pritchett, get out of her vehicle and walk across the traffic lanes toward the median.
DPS said a Subaru, driven by a 36-year-old male from Chandler, was driving in the HOV lane and struck the pedestrian as she was walking in the traffic lane.
Officials said the pedestrian was thrown into the HOV lane and was pronounced deceased on scene.
The driver of the Subaru initially stopped, called 911 and told the operator he had struck something, but then left the scene.
DPS said the hit-and-run driver was arrested at his home in Chandler.
He faces charges of impairment and leaving the scene of a fatal collision, officials said.
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
"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.
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