Surprise, AZ (December 10, 2024) – A late-night crash in Surprise on December 9, 2024, claimed the life of a 26-year-old driver and left another with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred just after 11:30 p.m. at the intersection of Waddell and Sarival roads.
According to the Surprise Police Department, a silver car attempted to make a left turn onto Sarival Road when it was struck by a black car traveling westbound on Waddell Road. The black vehicle was reportedly operating without headlights or taillights at the time of the collision.
Emergency responders from the Surprise Police and Fire-Medical units quickly arrived at the scene. Fire crews worked to extricate the driver of the black car, identified as Angel Salas Celaya, 26. He was transported to a local hospital in serious condition but later died from his injuries. The driver of the silver car sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was also taken to the hospital.
The crash resulted in temporary closures of both Sarival and Waddell roads as crews worked to repair a damaged traffic signal. The intersection was reopened to regular traffic after repairs were completed.
The Surprise Police Department’s Traffic Unit is continuing to investigate the crash. Early findings suggest that speed and impairment may have played a role in the incident.
As the holiday season approaches and traffic volume increases, the Surprise Police Department is urging drivers to exercise caution. Authorities are reminding residents to obey speed limits, wear seatbelts, and avoid driving under the influence—no matter how minor the impairment may seem.
The investigation is ongoing.