Phoenix police investigate fatal two-vehicle crash near 35th Avenue and Northern, impairment suspected as factor

What happened

Phoenix police are investigating a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of 35th Avenue and Northern Avenue that left one woman dead and two drivers hospitalized. The collision occurred just before 7 a.m. on January 27, and detectives have indicated impairment is believed to be a factor.

Officers arriving at the scene found two vehicles involved. Both drivers were transported to a hospital, with one suffering serious injuries. A passenger in one of the vehicles, 29-year-old Tianna Jones, was also taken to a hospital, where she later died.

Initial findings from investigators

Based on preliminary investigative information, detectives believe one vehicle was traveling northbound on 35th Avenue when it collided with a second vehicle traveling southbound. Police have not released additional details about the drivers’ identities, the specific point of impact, or whether any traffic signals or right-of-way issues are under review.

In cases where impairment is suspected, investigators typically rely on a combination of observations at the scene, witness statements, and forensic evidence gathered through crash reconstruction. Toxicology testing, when conducted, may take time to process, and final determinations are generally made after all investigative steps are completed.

What remains unknown

As of the latest police update, investigators have not publicly announced any arrests or criminal charges stemming from the crash. Police also have not said whether speed, distraction, or mechanical issues are suspected contributors, or whether any surveillance video, dash camera footage, or third-party witness accounts have been recovered.

Authorities have not released information about the sequence of events leading to the collision, including lane positions immediately before impact or whether either vehicle attempted evasive action.

What happens next

• Crash reconstruction work is expected to continue to determine how the vehicles came into conflict and whether traffic violations occurred.

• Investigators will review physical evidence from the scene and the vehicles, including damage patterns and roadway markings.

• If impairment evidence is substantiated and supported by investigative findings, the case may be submitted for possible charges after review.

Police have stated that impairment is believed to be a factor in the collision.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police have indicated that additional information may be released as detectives complete evidence collection and analysis.