Phoenix Jaywalker Killed in Hit-and-Run

Authorities searching for driver who fled the scene after striking pedestrian crossing outside of crosswalk.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:06am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car side mirror lens against a pitch-black background, capturing the dramatic texture and lighting to conceptually illustrate the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash.The aftermath of a deadly hit-and-run incident exposes the grim reality of Phoenix's ongoing pedestrian safety crisis.Phoenix Today

A 44-year-old Phoenix man was killed in a hit-and-run incident on Tuesday evening after he was struck by a vehicle while jaywalking across McDowell Road. Police responded to the scene around 7:35 p.m. and found the victim, Michael Arvallo, unresponsive. Arvallo was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle did not remain at the scene, but police later located the involved vehicle abandoned at a secondary location.

Why it matters

Jaywalking incidents and hit-and-run crashes are an ongoing public safety concern in Phoenix, with the city ranking among the most dangerous metro areas in the U.S. for pedestrians. This tragedy highlights the need for improved road infrastructure, pedestrian safety education, and stricter enforcement to protect vulnerable road users.

The details

According to the Phoenix Police Department, Arvallo was crossing McDowell Road just west of 63rd Avenue when he was struck by the vehicle. He was not using a designated crosswalk at the time of the incident. Police are still searching for the driver, who fled the scene after the collision.

  • The incident occurred around 7:35 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2026.

The players

Michael Arvallo

A 44-year-old Phoenix resident who was killed in the hit-and-run incident while jaywalking across McDowell Road.

Phoenix Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the hit-and-run crash and searching for the driver who fled the scene.

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What’s next

Police are continuing their investigation and searching for the driver involved in the hit-and-run incident. They are asking anyone with information about the crash or the driver's whereabouts to come forward.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for improved pedestrian safety measures in Phoenix, including better road infrastructure, increased public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement to protect vulnerable road users and prevent future senseless loss of life.