PHOENIX, AZ – A Phoenix Police officer was one of two people killed when a driver ran a red light in north Phoenix on May 31st, 2021. Officer Ginarro New was 27 years old. He leaves behind a wife, mother, brother, and grandmother, Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams said early Tuesday morning.
A police spokesperson said the crash happened around 10:30 p.m. Monday night near Cave Creek Road and Greenway Parkway.
Witnesses reportedly saw an eastbound vehicle running a red light while the police cruiser was going southbound through the intersection on a green light. Officer New had been with the department since July 2019 and had recently started his shift when the crash occurred.
The driver of the eastbound vehicle, 31-year old Christopher Castro, was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer had to be extricated from his vehicle before he was taken to the hospital where he died.
Video from the scene showed extensive damage to the vehicles involved and debris scattered along the roadway. Police say speed and impairment are believed to be contributing factors in the crash.
A procession was held early Tuesday morning as fellow officers escorted the fallen officer from the hospital to the medical examiner’s office in downtown Phoenix.
Chief Williams expressed gratitude for the doctors and emergency crews who tirelessly tried to save New’s life.
HOW TO HELP
The 100 Club of Arizona, the Phoenix Police Foundation and the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) have set up fundraisers to help the officer’s family. If you would like to help, you can donate online or by calling 602-485-0100.
We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Office New.
Source: ABC15 NEWS