29-Year-Old Man Fatally Struck by Car in Phoenix

Pedestrian was not using a crosswalk when he was hit along Grand Avenue

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:51pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 29-year-old man was fatally struck by a car while attempting to cross Grand Avenue in Phoenix on Friday night. Police said the man was not using a crosswalk when he was hit by the vehicle near 40th and Grand avenues. The driver of the car remained at the scene and showed no signs of impairment.

Why it matters

Pedestrian safety is an ongoing concern in Phoenix, with the city ranking among the most dangerous metro areas in the U.S. for people on foot. This incident highlights the risks pedestrians face when crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks.

The details

Around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, police responded to a crash involving a pedestrian near 40th and Grand avenues in Phoenix. They found the 29-year-old man, identified as John Smith Alrick, in critical condition. Alrick was taken to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The driver of the vehicle that struck Alrick remained at the scene and showed no signs of impairment, according to police.

  • The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2026.
  • Alrick was pronounced dead at the hospital after the crash.

The players

John Smith Alrick

A 29-year-old man who was fatally struck by a car while attempting to cross Grand Avenue in Phoenix.

Phoenix Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is investigating the fatal pedestrian crash.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for improved infrastructure and education to protect people on foot in Phoenix. It serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant and for pedestrians to use designated crosswalks when possible.