A Phoenix police officer died Monday when another driver ran a red light and and slammed into his patrol vehicle, sending the Chevy Tahoe through a block wall and into a parking lot.
Officer Ginarro New’s vehicle came to rest on its side, Phoenix Police Sgt Ann Justus said. Firefighters got New out of the Tahoe and rushed him to a hospital, where he died of his injuries.
The other driver, identified as 31-year-old Christopher Castro, also died in the crash, Fox 10 reported.
Police said speed and impairment contributed to the crash, which happened at about 10:30 p.m.
“I just want to point out this is the danger our officers face every night,” Justus said. “They go to work and they don’t know if they’re going to make it back to their family the next day. And unfortunately, this time, this officer did not. And we ask that your thoughts and prayers are with the New family as well as the entire Phoenix Police Department and all first responders.”
We are heartbroken by the incident which took the life of 27-year-old, Officer Ginarro New. On May 31, 2021, Officer New was involved in an on-duty collision near Cave Creek and Greenway. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/WG7NRzB1Rq
— Phoenix Police (@PhoenixPolice) June 1, 2021
Police said New, a 27-year-0ld Marine veteran, had been with the department since 2019. He is survived by his wife Kristen, mother Misty, father Jerry, brother Marcas, and grandmother Susan.
“He could’ve had a 9-5 job and been home with his wife,” Jerry New told Fox 10. “Instead he was out protecting the community, and I think this day and age a lot of people forget about that. They don’t realize it is a selfless act to put on that badge with integrity on a daily basis knowing it might be the last time you kiss your family goodbye.”
Arizona Governor Doug Ducey ordered flags flown at half-staff to honor New.
The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association is holding a barbecue fundraiser on Thursday to benefit New’s family.
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast:
[Featured image: Ginarro New/Phoenix Police Department]
