Two Men Killed in Tragic West Phoenix Collision Late Friday Night Authorities say both drivers—23-year-old Donnie Martinez and 35-year-old Ricardo Quintero
Phoenix, AZ — A devastating crash in west Phoenix claimed the lives of two men late Friday night, according to the Phoenix Police Department. The incident, which involved a violent two-vehicle collision, occurred shortly after 10:30 p.m. on April 18 near the intersection of 43rd Avenue and Northern Avenue—a busy stretch in the city’s west side.
Authorities say both drivers—23-year-old Donnie Martinez and 35-year-old Ricardo Quintero—were transported to a nearby hospital following the crash. Despite emergency medical intervention, both men succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital.
The Phoenix Police Department, which responded swiftly to the scene, has been leading the investigation. Preliminary reports indicate that Donnie Martinez was driving northbound on 43rd Avenue when, for reasons that remain under investigation, his vehicle veered into the southbound lanes, resulting in a head-on collision with the vehicle driven by Ricardo Quintero.
“The scene was chaotic,” said one witness who lives nearby and heard the crash. “We ran outside and saw both cars were completely wrecked. It was clear right away that this was serious.”
Police have not yet determined whether impairment, excessive speed, distraction, or other factors played a role in the crash. Toxicology reports are pending, and investigators continue to interview witnesses and gather surveillance footage from surrounding businesses in an effort to piece together what led to the fatal collision.
As of now, no other individuals are believed to have been involved, and both men were the sole occupants of their respective vehicles at the time of the crash.
The sudden loss has left families and the local community reeling. Social media has been flooded with tributes and expressions of sorrow from friends, coworkers, and loved ones of both Martinez and Quintero.
“Donnie had his whole life ahead of him,” wrote one friend in a heartfelt Facebook post. “He was full of dreams, always smiling. This is just so hard to accept.”
Ricardo Quintero, remembered as a dedicated father and hardworking provider, leaves behind a young daughter and a grieving family. “He was the kind of guy who would drop everything to help you,” said a relative. “We’re broken. This wasn’t supposed to happen.”
The crash occurred in a high-traffic area that has seen several collisions in the past, reigniting local discussions about road safety and infrastructure concerns. Some residents are calling for increased lighting, improved lane markings, and possible barriers to help prevent similar head-on collisions in the future.
Police urge anyone with information related to the crash—particularly individuals who may have witnessed the incident or captured it on a dashcam—to come forward to assist with the investigation. As the investigation unfolds, updates will be released to the public.
At this time, no charges have been filed, and the case remains an open and active investigation.
This is a developing story. Further details will be shared as they become available.