After fatal crash, Valley Metro light rail unable to travel between these 2 Phoenix stations

PHOENIX — After a truck driver allegedly ran a red light and crashed into a Valley Metro light rail Tuesday morning in Phoenix, train service between two stations is currently suspended.

Service between the Central Avenue/Camelback Road station and the Thomas Road/Central Avenue station is paused due to significant damage to rail and power infrastructure, according to Valley Metro. (UPDATE: Service resumed early Wednesday.)

The damage poses serious risks because the base of the overhead catenary system pole must be completely replaced before trains can run safely.

Crews are working to restore service as quickly as possible, but the disruption is expected to last through Wednesday night — and may affect New Year’s Eve travel, Valley Metro said.

Service Update: Due to the collision at Indian School/Central Ave earlier today. Trains still cannot travel between Central Ave/Camelback and Thomas/Central. Shuttle buses 7325 and 7326 are providing service between the affected stations. #vmservice #phxtraffic

— Valley Metro (@valleymetro) December 31, 2025

In the meantime, shuttle buses are available to connect riders between the impacted stations.

Details about Valley Metro accident impacting public transit in Phoenix

The disruption stems from a collision Tuesday morning at Indian School Road and Central Avenue. The Phoenix Police Department said a 28-year-old driver ran a red light and hit a Valley Metro light rail.

The driver, Mario Dircio-Castrejon, died at the scene, police said. Three passengers and the train operator were hospitalized.

Valley Metro said that despite the crash and its consequences, it stays committed to providing service through New Year’s Eve through the free ride period.

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