Driver in Fatal Phoenix Hit-and-Run Admits to Fentanyl Use

Eric Hodge allegedly veered into bike lane, struck and killed cyclist Hannah Henry, then bought more drugs

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 46-year-old Arizona man has been charged with reckless manslaughter and other felonies after he allegedly struck and killed a 26-year-old cyclist while high on fentanyl. Eric Hodge told police he "fell asleep" at the wheel and thought he had hit a fire hydrant, not the cyclist, before meeting someone to buy more drugs.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and the ongoing opioid crisis, which has led to a rise in fentanyl-related overdoses and crimes. It also raises questions about how to better protect vulnerable road users like cyclists in urban areas.

The details

According to court documents, Hodge was driving a van that veered into the bike lane and struck Hannah Henry from behind as she was riding her bicycle in Phoenix. Hodge allegedly continued driving after the incident, meeting someone to buy $100 worth of fentanyl. Police later found drug paraphernalia on Hodge when they apprehended him. Hodge told the judge he "didn't know that I hit anybody" and that he "fell asleep" at the wheel.

  • On February 8, 2026, the fatal hit-and-run incident occurred.
  • On February 10, 2026, Hodge made his first court appearance and was charged with reckless manslaughter and other felonies.
  • Hodge's next court date is scheduled for February 13, 2026.

The players

Eric Hodge

A 46-year-old Arizona man who was charged with reckless manslaughter and other felonies after allegedly striking and killing a cyclist while high on fentanyl.

Hannah Henry

A 26-year-old cyclist who was killed in the hit-and-run incident in Phoenix.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't know that I hit anybody. I fell asleep, and when I woke up, I was off the road a little bit.”

— Eric Hodge

“When he smokes fentanyl, he passes out randomly and wakes up in different places.”

— Eric Hodge

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Hodge to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and action around the opioid crisis, impaired driving, and protecting vulnerable road users. It serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when someone chooses to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs.