A tragic accident claimed the life of a young man in Peoria, Arizona, after he was struck by a pickup truck while skateboarding in a residential neighborhood late last week. Authorities identified the victim as 20-year-old Dylan Bartlett, a Peoria resident whose untimely death has left his family, friends, and the community in mourning.
The collision occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Friday at the intersection of 73rd Drive and Terramar Boulevard, located just northwest of 67th Avenue and Happy Valley Road. According to Peoria police, Bartlett was skateboarding and failed to stop while crossing the intersection. At the same moment, a Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling south on Terramar Boulevard struck him.
Emergency responders arrived promptly and transported Bartlett to a nearby hospital for treatment. Despite their efforts, Bartlett succumbed to his injuries, leaving his loved ones and community in shock and grief.
The driver of the pickup truck, whose identity has not been released, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with authorities. The intersection was closed to traffic for nearly five hours as investigators worked to piece together the circumstances leading to the tragic accident.
As of now, the investigation into the crash is ongoing. Peoria police are examining all factors that may have contributed to the collision, including visibility, traffic conditions, and whether speed or other variables played a role. No charges have been filed against the driver at this time.
Dylan Bartlett’s death has left an indelible mark on his community. Friends and family describe him as a spirited and adventurous young man who loved skateboarding and brought energy and warmth to every interaction. His passion for life and his ability to connect with people made him a beloved figure among those who knew him.
In the wake of this tragedy, community members have expressed their condolences and shared heartfelt tributes to honor Bartlett’s memory. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of love and support for his grieving family, with many emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about pedestrian and cyclist safety on roadways.
"Dylan was a bright light in our lives, and his loss is immeasurable," one family friend wrote on Facebook. "We will miss his smile, his laughter, and his love for adventure. Our hearts go out to his family during this unimaginably difficult time."
This incident also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety precautions for both pedestrians and drivers. Intersections can be particularly hazardous, and individuals traveling on foot, bicycles, or skateboards are especially vulnerable. Authorities encourage residents to remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and exercise caution in shared spaces to help prevent such tragedies in the future.
Bartlett’s passing has prompted discussions about potential safety enhancements in the area, such as improved signage, speed controls, or additional measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists. While no specific changes have been announced, community members hope to honor Bartlett’s memory by advocating for safer streets.
As the investigation continues, the Peoria community is coming together to support Bartlett’s family during this time of immense loss. Plans for a memorial service are underway, with friends and loved ones preparing to celebrate his life and the joy he brought to those around him.
Dylan Bartlett’s legacy will be remembered not only by his family and friends but also by the broader Peoria community. His untimely death highlights the need for vigilance and compassion on the roads, as well as the importance of cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones. While his life was tragically cut short, the impact he made on those who knew him will resonate for years to come.
