Police identify man killed in hit-and-run collision in west Phoenix

PHOENIX — Police identified the man killed in a hit-and-run collision in west Phoenix early Saturday morning and said he may have been hit by other vehicles.

Phoenix police officers responded to the collision near 35th and Grand avenues just after 5 a.m.

Upon arrival, officers found 53-year-old Victor Mendoza suffering from life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

The Phoenix Fire Department later arrived at the scene and pronounced Mendoza dead.

The vehicle that hit Mendoza left before police arrived, authorities said. 35th Avenue (south of Grand Avenue) closed in both directions.

Detectives have subsequently taken over the ongoing investigation.

What do detectives believe led up to the hit-and-run collision in west Phoenix?

Detectives believe Mendoza was crossing the road inside a crosswalk, when a small sedan driving south on 35th Avenue ran a red light and struck him. Detectives said Mendoza may have also been hit by other vehicles that did not remain on the scene, based on where he was located.

Those who possess any information regarding the collision are asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (837-8446) for Spanish speakers.

Callers may remain anonymous.

No other information was made available.

This is an updated version of a story originally published Nov. 29, 2025. 

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