Tucson police are still investigating a deadly crash that claimed the life of Christopher David De La Corte, 34, early Monday morning on South Park Avenue. The quiet, dark hours of the night turned tragic in an instant.
The crash happened around 1:30 a.m. in the 3700 block of South Park Avenue, close to Ajo Way and Historic U.S. 80. De La Corte was in the northbound median lane when he was struck by a 2016 Dodge Durango.
Authorities say the SUV was traveling at about the posted speed limit. Emergency crews responded quickly and took De La Corte to a hospital with critical injuries. Despite their efforts, he later died from those injuries.
The driver, a 37-year-old man, did not flee. He remained at the scene and worked with officers as they investigated. A DUI Unit officer checked for impairment and confirmed the driver was not under the influence.
Police noted that De La Corte was not using a marked or implied crosswalk when the collision occurred. During the investigation, officers found illegal drugs and paraphernalia on him. They could not determine if that had any direct role in the crash.
No charges have been announced as the investigation continues. Officers are still reviewing evidence and trying to fully understand how the moments before impact unfolded.
Beyond the police report is a family in mourning and a community feeling the loss. De La Corte’s death has shaken those who knew him and those who simply share the roads of Tucson.
As investigators move forward, the case serves as another painful reminder of how quickly lives can be changed on city streets, especially in the late-night hours.
