Tempe, AZ – In the past week, Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers intervened on Interstate 10 after two separate high‑speed incidents that threatened the safety of commuters and commercial traffic.
Curfew‑racing SUV pulled over near Warner Road
On November 8, a DPS trooper observed a tan SUV traveling at roughly 100 mph in the high‑occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane near Warner Road in Tempe. When the trooper followed, the driver swerved to the far‑right lane, weaving around other vehicles and a semi‑truck. The SUV then cut across all lanes in front of the semi‑truck and merged into the left lane, where it was clocked at 108 mph.
The driver, whose name was not released, told the trooper he was trying to get his passenger home before her curfew, which was set for an hour later. Troopers arrested the driver on charges of criminal speed and reckless driving, towed the SUV, and safely escorted the passenger off the highway.
Speeding Ford F‑150 stopped in construction zone
Later in the week, another DPS trooper monitored a construction zone on I‑10 between Phoenix and Casa Grande. The trooper recorded a silver Ford F‑150 traveling at 90 mph in a 55 mph zone, darting between lanes and passing several vehicles.
A records check revealed the driver had been cited within the past year for traveling 105 mph on the same interstate less than ten miles from the current stop. The driver also had prior citations for highway racing in Casa Grande, though details were not disclosed. When asked about those earlier incidents, the driver replied, “I can see how that looks bad.” He was arrested for criminal speed and reckless driving, and the truck was impounded.
Public‑safety message
DPS emphasized that reckless high‑speed driving endangers not only the driver but also passengers, commercial truckers, and everyday commuters. The department urged motorists to obey posted speed limits, especially in construction zones where workers are present and lane configurations can change rapidly.
Both incidents underscore the importance of vigilant traffic enforcement on Arizona’s major corridors. By acting swiftly, DPS troopers helped prevent potential collisions that could have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities.
What drivers can do
- Observe posted speed limits, especially in work zones.
- Avoid weaving or changing lanes abruptly.
- Plan trips ahead of time to reduce the temptation to race against curfews or schedules.
- Remember that reckless driving carries criminal penalties, including arrest, vehicle impoundment, and possible license suspension.
Residents are encouraged to report unsafe driving behavior by calling local law‑enforcement non‑emergency lines. Continued cooperation between the public and DPS helps keep Arizona’s highways safe for all travelers.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
