By Fire Chief Danny Johnson
Verde Valley News – On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at approximately 7:30 PM, units from the Verde Valley Fire District’s Station 31 and Station 32 responded to a multi-vehicle accident on State Route 89A at Oak Creek Valley Road. Emergency services were dispatched following reports that one vehicle had rolled over and was resting on its roof with occupants trapped inside.
Upon arrival, Battalion 3 established command and conducted a rapid size-up of the incident. E311 was assigned to patient extrication and securing vehicle hazards. A311 performed the initial triage and then assisted E311 with patient extrication.
The incident involved two vehicles and six patients. Due to the number of individuals involved, three additional ambulances were requested to assist with transport.
All six patients sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate and were transported by ground ambulance to local hospitals for further evaluation and treatment. Sedona Fire District and Verde Valley Ambulance assisted VVFD in providing prompt and coordinated patient care.
Cottonwood Police Department and the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) were also on scene and provided critical support throughout the incident. One northbound lane on State Route 89A remained open during the response to allow for continuous traffic flow.
We extend our sincere thanks to all agencies involved for their swift and professional response. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
As a reminder, safety is everyone’s responsibility. Always wear your seatbelt and never drive distracted. A moment of inattention can change lives in an instant.