Man dies after being pinned under vehicle when car crashes into Phoenix home overnight

Fatal crash inside a central Phoenix home

A man died in central Phoenix after a vehicle crashed into a residence and pinned him beneath the car, authorities said. The collision happened after 1 a.m. near 31st and Southern avenues, prompting an emergency response from police and fire crews.

The victim was identified as 66-year-old Jose Martinez. Investigators said Martinez was inside the home when the vehicle entered the residence and struck him. He was pronounced dead after suffering injuries consistent with being trapped under the car.

What investigators say happened

Police said the driver, a 38-year-old man, was taken into custody and booked into jail on a manslaughter charge. Investigators indicated impairment is suspected, while the broader circumstances leading to the vehicle leaving the roadway and entering the home remain under investigation.

No additional details were immediately released about speed, whether any other occupants were in the vehicle, or whether the driver required medical treatment.

• Location: near 31st Avenue and Southern Avenue, Phoenix

• Timeframe: after 1 a.m., overnight

• Victim: Jose Martinez, 66

• Arrest/charge: driver booked on a manslaughter allegation; impairment suspected

Family accounts from the scene

Relatives at the scene said Martinez had been asleep in his room when the car crashed into the home. Family members described him as an active presence in their household and said his death has left them in shock.

Family members said he had returned home from work and went to bed shortly before the crash.

The family has also organized fundraising efforts to help cover related expenses.

Part of a wider pattern of vehicles entering homes

The incident occurred during a night that also included another vehicle-into-property crash elsewhere in the Valley. While such cases can involve a range of causes—from impairment to roadway design, driver error, or medical emergencies—investigators have not yet detailed what factors were present in this crash.

Police said the investigation is ongoing. Any final determination of cause, along with potential additional charges, would depend on investigative findings and prosecutorial review.