37-Year-Old Passenger Dies in Three-Car Accident near Northern Avenue

PHOENIX, AZ (December 30, 2024) – Thursday evening, a 3-vehicle crash on 43rd Avenue claimed the life of Adam Bates.

Police officers responded to the scene around 7:00 p.m., near Northern Avenue on December 19th.

Investigators say 46-year-old Richard McKinney was driving an SUV north on 43rd Avenue and entered the intersection where he crashed into another vehicle.

Upon impact, the second vehicle spun out and struck another vehicle that was heading southbound.

Due to the extent of injuries sustained, medics pronounced a passenger from the second vehicle dead at the scene. Authorities later identified him as 37-year-old Bates.

Meanwhile, medics transported three adults and a teenager to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Following preliminary duties, troopers arrested McKinney and booked him into jail where he was charged with multiple counts including manslaughter, aggravated assault, and endangerment.

Authorities have refrained from disclosing any further details about the crash at this time.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the family and friends of Adam Bates.

Losing a loved one in a car accident can have devastating effects on the emotional and financial well-being of those left behind. Let the wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James help you during this trying time. Call us today at 1-844-363-7713 for a free and confidential case evaluation.