(Tucson, AZ) Two young adults were killed late Monday night, January 5, in a 22nd Street collision involving a dirt bike and a passenger vehicle.
The Tucson Police Department said the crash occurred around 10 p.m. at East 22nd Street and South Country Club Road. Operations Division Midtown officers and the Tucson Fire Department responded to the scene, where they pronounced two people dead.
Authorities identified the victims as E’Lyanha Nevaeh Valenzuela 18, and Mickey Daniel Ortiz, 20, Police said both rode on the dirt bike at the time of the crash, though it has not been confirmed who drove the bike. The driver of the Kia SUV involved in the collision did not sustained any injuries.
According to investigators, evidence and witness interviews indicate the dirt bike traveled eastbound on 22nd Street. At some point, the Kia, traveling westbound, attempted a left turn onto southbound Country Club Road. The dirt bike struck the passenger side of the SUV. Police said neither Valenzuela nor Ortiz wore a helmet, and the dirt bike did not have a functioning headlamp.
An officer from the Tucson Police Department’s Impaired Driving Enforcement Unit evaluated the Kia driver and found no signs of impairment. Detectives are still working to determine the status of the traffic signals at the time of the crash. No charges had been filed as of Wednesday, and several aspects of the investigation remain unknown.
Overview on the 22nd Street Collision
When a fatal crash occurs at a signalized intersection, investigators review traffic safety laws. These reviews focus on vehicle movement, visibility, and right-of-way.
Because police said the primary focus includes a left turn in front of oncoming traffic, investigators may examine the Left Turn Yield Law. This law requires drivers making a left turn to yield the right-of-way to oncoming vehicles that are close enough to pose a hazard. Failing to yield can leave little time for other road users to react.
Since the dirt bike was reportedly operating at night without a working headlamp, authorities may also review the Motorcycle Safety Statute. This statute requires motorcycles and motor-driven cycles to be equipped with proper lighting during nighttime hours. Lack of illumination can significantly reduce visibility for both riders and other drivers.
Guidance for the Victims’ Family
If you are related to E’Lyanha Nevaeh Valenzuela or Mickey Daniel Ortiz, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request the official crash report when it becomes available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal roadway collisions. They can help you better understand your options. Emotional support is essential, and leaning on family, friends, or local grief counseling resources can help as you navigate the days ahead.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
