Maricopa County, AZ - A tragic accident on Sunday morning on Interstate 10 eastbound near Tonopah has left three people dead and two others injured. The incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. near mile marker 76, approximately 6 miles east of the Maricopa / La Paz county line, according to officials from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The authorities suspect that an SUV was traveling at a high speed on I-10 when it collided with a disabled pickup truck, striking two individuals who were standing outside the truck. Tragically, both the driver and a passenger of the SUV were pronounced dead at the scene, while two other passengers were airlifted to the hospital to receive medical attention for their injuries.

In addition to the casualties in the SUV, a passenger in the pickup truck also lost their life in the crash. The driver of the truck sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital via helicopter for further treatment. The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending notification of their families.

As a result of the accident, the eastbound lanes of I-10 were closed for several hours to facilitate the investigation into the crash. However, the lanes have since been reopened for normal traffic flow. DPS officials, alongside local law enforcement, are conducting a comprehensive inquiry to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the collision.

The incident serves as a devastating reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and adherence to traffic regulations. Authorities urge all motorists to exercise caution while on the road to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring.

Anyone with additional information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety or local law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those affected by this heartbreaking accident.