Teen faces manslaughter charge after pre-dawn two-vehicle crash kills Phoenix driver near 67th Avenue

What authorities say happened

A 19-year-old driver has been arrested and booked on felony charges after a pre-dawn collision in west Phoenix that left one man dead and two others hospitalized.

The crash occurred around 3:16 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, near the intersection of North 67th Avenue and West Virginia Avenue. Police identified the deceased driver as Juan Andres Ortiz, 38. Officers attempted life-saving measures at the scene, but Ortiz was pronounced dead there.

Two other adults were reported injured and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Their identities and medical conditions were not publicly released in the initial police summary.

Driver arrested; impairment allegation under review

Police identified the other driver as Andy Lepe, 19, who was taken into custody and booked into jail. Investigators said Lepe showed signs of impairment at the scene and was processed for impairment testing.

Police also said additional charges related to impairment were pending the return of toxicology results, a step that can be determinative in whether prosecutors pursue charges tied to alcohol or drug intoxication.

Preliminary findings on speed, lights, and right-of-way

Detectives who took over the investigation described a preliminary sequence: Lepe was driving northbound on 67th Avenue when Ortiz, traveling southbound, attempted a left turn onto Virginia Avenue. Investigators said the vehicles collided during the turn.

Police reported that Lepe’s vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and had no headlights on just prior to the crash. Such details typically become central issues in a criminal case because they can affect how investigators and prosecutors assess driving behavior, visibility, and reaction time.

Charges filed at booking

Lepe was booked on the following charges in connection with the crash:

• Manslaughter
• Aggravated assault
• Endangerment

Police described the investigation as ongoing and said additional details remain under review.

What happens next

The case is expected to proceed through the standard felony process, including an initial appearance and subsequent court proceedings where a judge will address release conditions and the next hearing dates. If toxicology results support impairment allegations, prosecutors could seek to add or amend charges. If not, the case may proceed based on other alleged driving factors cited by investigators, including speed and headlights.