Tucson Police identify 69-year-old victim of fatal eastside crash | Local News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) — A 69-year-old man who died in a crash on the eastside has been identified by the Tucson Police Department. 

The victim was identified as 69-year-old Thomas Allan Longanecker.

On April 29 at 12:05 p.m., Operations Division East officers and the Tucson Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle crash near Speedway Boulevard and Constitution Drive. 

Longanecker, the driver of a Toyota Tacoma, was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries where he later died. The driver of a Mercedes-Benz GLS was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. 

According to roadway evidence and witness interviews, the 69-year-old was driving eastbound on Speedway in the median lane when he suddenly crossed over the raised center median. TPD said Longanecker hit a tree before crossing into oncoming westbound traffic and striking the Mercedes-Benz that was traveling on Speedway.

“The reason for Mr. Longanecker’s crossing of the median is unknown,” TPD stated. 

The victim was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. 

Tucson Police confirmed the Mercedes-Benz driver was not impaired. 

“Failure to reduce and control speed to avoid a collision and driving left of center by Mr. Longanecker are the known major contributing factors of the collision currently,” TPD said. 

The investigation is ongoing.