Michael John Webb Killed in Phoenix Hit-and-Run Accident
The westbound vehicle failed to yield to traffic and struck the motorcycle before fleeing the scene
Michael John Webb, 58, was killed in a hit-and-run accident near 33rd Avenue and Cactus Road in Phoenix on Wednesday, according to police.
Detectives believe an unknown vehicle was driving west on Cactus Road and failed to yield to traffic. The car then struck the motorcycle on the north side of Cactus Road before fleeing the scene. According to reports, details are limited regarding the direction the motorcycle was driving.
Webb was located around 6 p.m. Rescuers took him a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Detectives are searching for the driver and the vehicle involved in the collision. No description of the suspect's car was immediately available.
Why did the driver flee the scene on Cactus Road?
When a driver flees, the burden of navigating the aftermath often falls entirely on the victim's family. While the Phoenix Police Department searches for the suspect, investigators will likely review traffic cameras and speak with witnesses to identify the vehicle that struck Webb. Hit-and-run collisions often leave families facing mounting medical bills and funeral costs while waiting for authorities to locate the at-fault driver.
Cristina Perez, a national legal analyst for Accident News and attorney at Perez Law Group, said, "In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from a crash scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party."
How do hit-and-run investigations unfold in Phoenix?
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, the state recorded 1,228 traffic death in 2024, with Maricopa County accounting for 560 of those deaths. ADOT data shows that urban areas like Phoenix account for nearly 87% of all crashes in the state, highlighting the risks on busy corridors.
"Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide an injured victim during this difficult time while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests," noted Gabe Miller, a national legal analyst for Accident News and attorney at Perez Law Group.
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.