fatal crashmotorcycleTempe PoliceKiwanis ParkimpairmentBaseline Road

Tempe: 20-Year-Old Motorcyclist Killed After Camaro Driver Fails to Yield Near Kiwanis Park

M

Marcus Whitfield

A young rider dies as a car pulls out of a popular Tempe park

A 20-year-old motorcyclist died late Saturday night after a Chevrolet Camaro pulled out of Kiwanis Park and struck his bike on Baseline Road, according to Tempe Police. The driver of the Camaro was arrested on suspicion of impairment.

First responders arrived at the intersection of Baseline Road and Mill Avenue around 10:30 p.m. on June 20. Officers found the motorcyclist seriously injured at the scene. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries, police said.

"The driver of a Chevrolet Camaro didn’t yield when exiting Kiwanis Park and hit a motorcyclist who was driving eastbound on Baseline," Tempe Police said, according to AZFamily.

The Camaro driver and a passenger remained at the scene after the collision. Officers reported that the driver showed signs of impairment. He was arrested, booked, and later released pending multiple charges. Tempe Police have not publicly identified either the motorcyclist or the Camaro driver.

The investigation continues

The Tempe Police Department Traffic Section is leading the investigation into the fatal crash. Police are reconstructing the scene and reviewing evidence. Officials have not released the specific charges against the Camaro driver.

Neither the rider nor the driver has been named while family notifications and investigative work continue, according to Hoodline.

Motorcycle deaths in Arizona

Motorcycles represent a small share of Arizona traffic but account for a disproportionate number of traffic fatalities. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation's 2024 Crash Facts report, there were 3,036 motorcycle crashes in 2024. That year saw 219 motorcycle operator and passenger fatalities statewide.

The report notes that Maricopa and Pima counties accounted for more than 70% of those motorcycle deaths. Angle collisions and left-turn conflicts remain among the most dangerous situations for riders on city streets.

What to know about the crash

  • When: Saturday, June 20, around 10:30 p.m.
  • Where: Baseline Road and Mill Avenue, near Kiwanis Park, Tempe
  • Victim: 20-year-old male motorcyclist
  • Vehicle involved: Chevrolet Camaro
  • Driver status: Arrested on suspicion of impairment; booked and released pending multiple charges
  • Investigation: Ongoing, led by Tempe Police Traffic Section

Tempe Police said official updates will be posted as the investigation progresses.

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