A 41-year-old First Sergeant assigned to U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion, Phoenix, Arizona, died in an automobile mishap 19 May 2025 near Tucson, Arizona, at 0130 local. The Soldier's vehicle was rear-ended by an SUV on the interstate, pushing it into the path of a box truck. Arizona Department of Public Safety officers responded to the scene and transported the Soldier to a local hospital, where he died. Additional information is currently unavailable.

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 36 Soldiers a year to automobile mishaps. This mishap was the 22nd automobile fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.   

Safety Tips

1. Maintain a Safe Following Distance: While the three-second rule is more for maintaining distance while driving, it also translates to a safe following distance when stopping. Increase this distance in adverse weather or when driving behind large vehicles. When stopping behind another vehicle, you should stop far enough back to see the rear tires of the vehicle in front of you touching the ground. This provides a safety buffer in case you need to maneuver around the vehicle or if you are rear-ended and pushed forward.
2. Be Mindful of Tailgaters: If you notice someone is tailgating you, try to create more space by gradually slowing down and encouraging them to pass. Do not brake hard to try and scare them off, as this could lead to a collision.
3. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions like texting, eating or using your phone. Pay attention to your surroundings, including the vehicles ahead and behind.
4. Scan Your Surroundings: Look far ahead of your vehicle to anticipate potential hazards, such as stopped or slow-moving traffic, pedestrians or merging vehicles. This allows you to react early and avoid sudden stops that could lead to a rear-end collision.
5. Use Turn Signals Early and Clearly: Signal your intentions well in advance when changing lanes or turning. This gives other drivers ample time to react and adjust their driving accordingly.
6. Brake Gradually: Avoid sudden stops whenever possible. Slowing down gradually allows the driver behind you more time to react and avoid a collision.
7. Check Your Mirrors Frequently: Regularly check your rearview and side mirrors to monitor traffic behind you. This helps you stay aware of vehicles that might be too close or approaching too fast.
8. Be Cautious in Adverse Conditions: Increase your following distance and reduce your speed in rain, snow or fog.
9. Ensure Your Brake Lights are Working: Always make sure your brake lights are functioning correctly to alert other drivers when you are slowing down or stopping.
10. Scan for an Escape Path: If you anticipate a potential rear-end collision, look for a safe place to move to the side of the road or shoulder to avoid being pushed into other traffic.

Tips provided by NHTSA.