Maricopa, AZ — One person was injured Thursday evening following a serious two-vehicle collision on the Maricopa–Casa Grande Highway near Parker Road, according to the Maricopa Police Department. The crash was reported shortly after 6 p.m. on December 18, prompting a swift response from police and fire crews.

Preliminary findings indicate that a vehicle traveling westbound drifted into the eastbound lanes of the highway, where it collided nearly head-on with an oncoming vehicle. The force of the impact caused the westbound vehicle to overturn, leaving the driver trapped inside the wreckage. Emergency responders from the Maricopa Fire/Medical Department worked quickly to extricate the driver from the damaged vehicle.

The injured driver was transported to Chandler Regional Medical Center for treatment. Authorities confirmed the injuries were non-life-threatening. The driver of the eastbound vehicle was not injured in the collision and remained at the scene to cooperate with investigators.

Due to the severity of the crash and the need for emergency response and cleanup, the Maricopa–Casa Grande Highway was temporarily closed between Parker Road and Murphy Road. The closure caused traffic disruptions as officers secured the area, cleared debris, and conducted their on-scene investigation.

Police later cited the westbound driver for failure to maintain one lane, which investigators believe was a key factor in the crash. No additional contributing factors have been released at this time.

This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly roadway conditions can turn dangerous, especially on busy highways. Authorities urge drivers to remain alert, avoid distractions, and stay within their lanes to help prevent similar accidents.