A Tempe woman is facing multiple felony charges following a fatal chain-reaction crash on Interstate 10 in west Phoenix that left one man dead and another person seriously injured, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Investigators say the collision happened shortly before noon on Sunday after a Kia sedan allegedly traveling at a high speed struck another vehicle, setting off a multi-vehicle crash that closed a portion of the freeway for several hours.
Crash
According to DPS, the crash occurred on eastbound Interstate 10 near west Phoenix.
Investigators allege that 23-year-old Andie Stehley of Tempe was speeding when her Kia changed lanes and collided with a Toyota Highlander. The impact pushed the Highlander into a Scion SUV before it crashed into an exit sign pole.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and used hydraulic rescue equipment to free at least one person trapped inside a vehicle.
The eastbound lanes of I-10 remained closed for several hours while investigators documented the scene and cleared the wreckage.
Victims
DPS identified the driver of the Toyota Highlander as Michael Byington of Wisconsin.
Byington died at the scene as a result of the crash.
A passenger in the Highlander suffered serious injuries and was transported for medical treatment. The driver of the Scion was not injured, according to investigators.
Charges
Following the investigation, Stehley was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County Jail.
She is facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Second-degree homicide.
- Endangerment.
- Criminal damage.
The charges remain allegations, and the case will proceed through the court system.
Investigation
State troopers said the investigation remains active.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding any toxicology testing or whether impairment is believed to have played a role in the crash.
Investigators are continuing to review evidence, including available traffic camera footage, as the case moves forward.
What Happens Next
The Arizona Department of Public Safety will submit its investigative findings to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, which will determine how the prosecution proceeds.
Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
FAQs
Who was arrested after the crash?
23-year-old Andie Stehley of Tempe.
Who died in the collision?
Michael Byington of Wisconsin died at the scene.
What charges does the driver face?
Second-degree homicide, endangerment and criminal damage.
Where did the crash happen?
On eastbound Interstate 10 in west Phoenix.
Is the investigation complete?
No. Arizona DPS says the investigation remains active.
