Hit-and-Run Accident in Laveen Kills Douglas Lee Smith

Phoenix, Arizona—A hit-and-run collision on SR-202 in Laveen left one person dead on Sunday afternoon.  The Arizona Department of Public Safety was called to milepost 72 at about 2:45 p.m. in response to a crash between a Toyota Prius and a Honda Odyssey. 

According to accident investigators, a vehicle driven by Marcus Castro was driving at estimated speeds of 100 m.p.h. and rapdily changing lanes when he collided with another vehicle. Castro ran from the scene.

Phoenix Fire arrived on scene and paramedics immediately began CPR on Douglas Lee Smith, age 70, the driver of the Prius. Mr. Smith was transported by ambulance to Banner Estrella Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Phoenix Police tracked down Castro, who had fled to a location near 51st Avenue and Southern. Castro was returned to the scene where witnesses identified him as the driver. According to court records, Castro works as an employee for the City of Phoenix.

We offer our sympathy to Douglas Smith's family and friends for this tragic and senseless loss.