Intersection of Houghton and Rita Roads reopened after morning fatal single-vehicle crash

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — A fatal single-vehicle collision involving a 2023 JEEP Wrangler occurred early Sunday morning near the intersection of South Houghton and East Rita Roads, resulting in the death of an adult male driver.

The Tucson Police Department (TPD) confirmed that the incident involved only one vehicle. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released.

TPD says that investigators determined that the Wrangler was traveling northbound on Houghton Road at a high rate of speed. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle left the roadway and struck a traffic signal control pole at the intersection.

The crash caused significant damage to the pole, prompting city crews to shut down the intersection for several hours while repairs were made. The closure remained in effect throughout the morning, leading to detours and traffic delays in the area.

Crews were able to complete the necessary repairs, and the intersection was reopened by late Sunday afternoon.

Excessive speed is believed to be the primary contributing factor in the collision. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

KGUN9 will keep you updated as the story develops.