49-Year-Old Pedestrian Crossing the Street Dies after Being Struck by Vehicle near 7th Street

SCOTTSDALE, AZ (September 13, 2023) – On Sunday evening, police were called to a hit-and-run that claimed the life of Magellan Rutaneahwa.

The incident happened around 7:30 p.m., September 9th, at the intersection of 7th Street and McDowell Road.

Paramedics from the Phoenix Fire Department arrived at the scene and found 49-year-old Magellan Rutaneahwa unconscious on the roadway. They performed life-saving measures on him but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Furthermore, the driver that struck Rutaneahwa left the scene and did not call for an emergency. Investigation showed that Rutaneahwa crossed 7th Street at a red light when the vehicle headed north crashed into him.

At this time, no identification of the driver or the vehicle was released by the authorities. Speed is suspected as the factor of the incident.

Further investigation is still active and anyone with information can contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS, or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish.

No words can mend the broken hearts and sorrow felt during this delicate moment. Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the family and friends of Magellan Rutaneahwa.

Losing someone in a hit-and-run crash is always a traumatic experience for the surviving family. At Sweet James, We understand that the death of a loved one can leave a lasting impact on your emotional and financial well-being, and we are here to help. Our wrongful death attorneys understand that the legal issues impose challenges to those involved. Let us help you through the legal process so that you can focus on the welfare of your family. Call us today at 1-844-363-7713 to arrange a free and confidential case evaluation.