Johnny Rivas Killed in Tucson Pedestrian Accident
A 33-year-old man was also critically injured during the heavy monsoon rainfall collision
Johnny Rivas, 60, of Tucson, was killed in a pedestrian crash on East Speedway Boulevard near North Woodland Avenue in Tucson, Arizona, on Aug. 5, according to the Tucson Police Department.
A silver 2016 Subaru Forester traveling east in the middle lane struck two people crossing the road during heavy monsoon rainfall that flooded the curb lane and reduced visibility. The 60-year-old man died at the scene, while paramedics transported a 33-year-old man to St. Joseph's Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The 44-year-old driver stopped immediately and cooperated with investigators, who determined he was not impaired.
No citations have been issued as the crash remains under investigation.
Why did the collision occur on East Speedway Boulevard?
Investigators will examine the flooded road conditions and visibility issues present during the monsoon downpour. While preliminary reports indicate the driver was not impaired, law enforcement must evaluate all factors, including vehicle speed and driver reaction time.
In pedestrian accidents such as this, safety analysts point to environmental hazards and driver awareness as critical elements.
Cristina Perez, attorney at Perez Law Group, said, "Pedestrians face extreme danger when drivers travel at high speeds because faster vehicles need much more distance to stop. High speeds make it hard to figure out whether a driver had enough time to react before the crash."
"An attorney works to check vehicle data recorder information, figure out driver speeds, and ensure grieving families get clear answers from insurance carriers," added Perez, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, 263 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes statewide in 2024, with Maricopa and Pima counties accounting for nearly 80% of those fatalities.
What are the next steps for the Rivas family?
The family of Rivas now faces a complex aftermath as authorities finalize their crash reconstruction. Families who lose a loved one in a traffic collision often encounter immediate financial and emotional burdens. Individuals involved in pedestrian accidents may have legal options. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify rights and potential claims.
Arizona wrongful death statute
Under A.R.S. § 12-611, surviving family members of a person killed in a traffic collision may file a wrongful death action in Arizona. The state applies pure comparative fault when determining liability. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages under Arizona's wrongful death statute may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship and consortium, funeral and burial expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering. Arizona law designates specific parties — typically a surviving spouse, children, or parents — as eligible to bring a wrongful death action.
"Witness interviews can preserve valuable observations after a fatal crash, especially because memories can change as time passes," noted Gabe Miller, a national legal analyst for Accident News and attorney at Perez Law Group.