Tucson Man Omar Del Ra Soto Dies in Early Morning Crash: Kia Driver’s Red-Light Violation Under Investigation

Tucson Man Omar Del Ra Soto Dies in Early Morning Crash, Kia Driver’s Red-Light Violation Under Investigation.

The Tucson Police Department has identified the victim of a fatal early-morning crash as 47-year-old Omar Del Ra Soto. The collision occurred on March 9 at approximately 4:30 a.m. at the intersection of Broadway Boulevard and Craycroft Road, leaving Soto dead at the scene. The other driver involved, who was transported to a hospital with minor injuries, survived the crash.

According to TPD, Soto was driving a Honda Civic and was attempting a left turn onto westbound Broadway Boulevard from northbound Craycroft Road when the accident occurred. Witnesses and collected evidence indicate that the traffic light for Soto was green at the time. Meanwhile, a Kia EV6 traveling eastbound on Broadway failed to stop at a red light at Craycroft, striking Soto’s vehicle. Both cars were disabled following the collision.

Investigators noted that the Kia driver was traveling above the 35 mph speed limit but was not impaired, according to an Impaired Driving Enforcement Unit officer. TPD emphasized that the primary focus of the ongoing investigation is the Kia’s excessive speed and failure to obey the traffic signal. Authorities are also reviewing the timing of the traffic lights and other vehicle speed factors to determine contributing causes.

The Tucson Police Department urges anyone with information about the crash to come forward, either by contacting TPD directly or calling 88-CRIME, where tips can remain anonymous.

Soto’s tragic death serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of disregarding traffic signals and the importance of road safety. The investigation continues as authorities work to fully understand the events that led to this fatal crash.