Three People Killed in Pearce Passenger Van Accident

Three People Died, Multiple Injured in Pearce Car Accident With Passenger Van on U.S. Route 191 by Milepost 36

PEARCE, ARIZONA (April 20, 2026) – Three people have tragically died and multiple people were injured in a Pearce car accident on U.S. Route 191 near milepost 36.

Cochise County officials are saying that the accident took place around 9:00 p.m. on Thursday night. A van was carrying 12 people and traveling southbound on the roadway when it was involved in a collision.

The force of the impact caused three people to be ejected. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the crash to help all of the victims.

The three people who were ejected died at the scene. Four other people were airlifted to various hospitals in Tucson.

Two people remain in critical condition following the crash. An additional two victims have since been stabilized. Around five other people sustained more moderate injuries and were treated at the scene.

Liability for Pearce Van Accidents

Drivers in Arizona are expected to operate their vehicles with caution to avoid any collision. This necessitates that they maintain a safe speed at all times. According to Arizona Vehicle Code 28-701, “A person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances, conditions and actual and potential hazards then existing.” Many different factors could contribute to a car accident.

• Distracted Driving: Many fatal car accidents involve at least one driver who was distracted.
• Inclement Weather: Poor weather conditions can increase the time it takes for a vehicle to be brought to a safe stop.
• Maintenance: Vehicles must receive periodic maintenance to function safely. Tire blowouts and other issues could easily cause a driver to lose control.

Vehicles that are being used to transport members of the public for a fee are typically considered common carriers. A common carrier is held to a heightened standard and must operate with the greatest level of care to avoid causing harm to passengers. If a vehicle was being used for commercial purposes, the company that owned the vehicle could also be held liable. Generally speaking, employers are liable for the wrongful conduct of their workers who are operating within the course and scope of their job duties.

Steps to Take After Passenger Van Accidents

Car accidents remain one of the leading causes of preventable injury and death across Arizona and the United States. According to the National Safety Council, “Between 1913 and 2024, motor-vehicle deaths per 10,000 registered vehicles decreased 96%, from 33 to 1.44, respectively. In 1913, only 1.3 million vehicles were registered, and 4,200 people died on the road. In 2023, 297.5 million vehicles were registered, and 42,789 people died on the road.” It is important that certain actions are taken after any passenger vehicle accident.

• Police: The police should be called to the scene so that they can begin an investigation. The police report that they create can be very helpful in determining what led up to a crash.
• Evidence: All of the evidence associated with the crash should be collected. This may include photos of the accident site and the actual vehicle involved.
• Medical Records: Medical records related to the crash should be sought. The nature of a person’s injuries can help reveal what happened, even in the absence of eyewitnesses.
• Independent Investigation: The family members of any person who died in a car accident should request an independent investigation by a team experienced in accident reconstruction.

Car accidents are often highly preventable. They often involve drivers that are speeding or committing other traffic infractions. Sadly, negligent drivers and their insurance providers will almost never accept responsibility in the event of a crash. Victims of car accidents are protected by a number of laws. They are able to seek some measure of accountability through a civil claim. This right extends to the surviving family members of any person who dies in a collision.

Investigating Arizona Passenger Vehicle Accidents

We at The Law Offices of John Phebus extend our deepest condolences to all of the families who lost loved ones in this collision. It is our sincere hope that the other victims will be able to make a full recovery. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. A number of questions still remain unanswered.

Do you need more information about a Pearce passenger vehicle accident? Our team of safety advocates is here for you. We are committed to helping accident victims get the information and resources that they are entitled to under the law. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any accident, we are here for you. You are always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (623) 267-9283.