May 4, 2026, 10:53 a.m. MT
- A head-on collision near Lake Pleasant injured nine people, including multiple juveniles.
- The crash involved a pickup truck and a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) with seven occupants.
- Reduced visibility due to dust is believed to be a contributing factor, authorities said.
Nine individuals were injured in a head-on collision involving a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) and a pickup truck north of Lake Pleasant, according to authorities.
The incident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on May 3, near French Creek Road, about one mile east of Castle Hot Springs, said Peoria police spokesperson Sgt. Shelly Montes.
The UTV was carrying seven occupants, including multiple juveniles, while two adults were in the pickup truck, Montes reported.
Preliminary information indicates that the UTV was traveling northbound and the pickup truck was heading southbound at the time of the collision, Montes said.
Investigators suspect that reduced visibility from dust in the area may have contributed to the crash, according to Montes.
Four individuals from the UTV were transported to local hospitals in critical condition, with three requiring air transport. Three others sustained minor injuries, Montes added.
The ages of those involved range from 16 to 48, but identities are being withheld at this time, she stated.
Peoria police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and will provide updates as information becomes available.
The Peoria Fire Medical Department and the Phoenix Fire Department assisted at the scene, Montes noted.
Authorities remind the public to exercise caution when operating off-road vehicles and ensure all occupants are properly seated, especially in conditions of reduced visibility.