YUMA, Ariz. — The Yuma community is mourning the death of 31-year-old Jesus Velazquez, who died Monday morning following a serious three-vehicle collision. The crash also left a 28-year-old woman seriously injured and hospitalized, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident.
According to the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 6:29 a.m. on February 9, 2026, near E. County 18 ½ Street and S. Avenue 3E. Preliminary reports indicate that Velazquez and the female victim were standing near their parked vehicles along the south side of County 18 ½ when a red Mazda truck, traveling westbound, crossed into the eastbound lanes, striking the parked vehicles and the two individuals. The driver of the Mazda fled the scene on foot following the collision.
Emergency responders from Rural Metro Fire – Yuma County arrived quickly at the scene. Both victims were airlifted to a Phoenix-area hospital due to the severity of their injuries. Velazquez later succumbed to his injuries, and authorities have confirmed that his next of kin have been notified. The female victim remains in critical condition.
The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau is leading the ongoing investigation into the crash. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and vehicle evidence in hopes of locating the driver who fled the scene. Officials emphasize that anyone who may have seen the incident or the Mazda in the area is urged to come forward.
Authorities have asked the public to report any information related to the crash by calling the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office at 928-783-4427 or 78-CRIME to remain anonymous. Tips can also be submitted online at www.yumacountysheriff.org. Even small details could prove critical in identifying the driver and understanding how the collision occurred.
As the investigation continues, the Yuma community is mourning the loss of Jesus Velazquez while keeping the injured woman in their thoughts. Family, friends, and neighbors are left grappling with the tragedy, and authorities are working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable while seeking answers for the victims and their loved ones.
