In a tragic sequence of events on Friday night, a deadly crash unfolded on the westbound Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway near Lindsay Road in Gilbert. The incident began when a vehicle lost control and struck a barrier wall on the right shoulder, coming to rest perpendicular across the travel lanes. After three occupants exited their disabled vehicle, a second vehicle collided with the stationary car and struck two of the individuals who were standing nearby. The impact caused the second vehicle to catch fire. Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials responded to the scene and confirmed fatalities, though the exact number of casualties and injuries has not been released. The westbound lanes of Loop 202 South Mountain were completely closed at Lindsay Road while emergency responders and investigators worked at the scene, with no immediate estimate for reopening.

Location and Infrastructure

The crash occurred on a crucial segment of Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway (also known as Ed Pastor Freeway), a major arterial route serving the southeastern Phoenix metropolitan area. The location near Lindsay Road in Gilbert is characterized by a multi-lane divided highway with barrier-separated traffic flows. This section of Loop 202 typically experiences significant traffic volume, particularly during evening hours, as it serves as a vital connection between the East Valley communities and Phoenix proper. The area features modern highway infrastructure, including concrete barriers and emergency shoulders, though nighttime visibility can be affected by limited ambient lighting in certain sections.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Arizona law, victims of motor vehicle accidents and their families have specific legal rights regarding compensation for injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Arizona follows a comparative negligence system, where multiple parties may share liability based on their degree of fault. Accident victims typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit, while wrongful death claims must also be initiated within two years. Available compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in fatal cases, funeral expenses and loss of financial support. Insurance claims must be filed promptly, and Arizona's mandatory insurance requirements play a crucial role in determining available coverage. An experienced Phoenix car crash lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Gilbert Police Department: (480) 503-6500
• Gilbert Fire and Rescue: (480) 503-6300
• Banner Gateway Medical Center: (480) 543-2000

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Arizona Department of Transportation Safety Portal
• Gilbert Traffic Safety Division
• Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety

Victim Support Services:

• Arizona Crime Victims' Rights Law Group
• MADD Arizona Chapter
• Arizona Coalition for Victim Services

Legal References:

• Arizona Revised Statutes Title 28 (Transportation)
• Arizona Department of Insurance Resources
• Arizona Courts Self-Help Center